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Are you using color alone in your data?

  • The Rule: Never use color alone to convey meaning in charts or data. This applies especially to red/green combinations. Use clear text labels, symbols, or patterns in addition to color.
  • The Check: If the chart or data were printed in black and white, would a user still be able to distinguish and understand all the categories? For example, if you rely solely on red for “negative” and green for “positive,” the check fails.
  • Action: Use chart editor tools to adjust the chart colors and ensure data labels are turned on for all series. If using conditional formatting (e.g., green/red), add an accompanying text column for a clear “Pass/Fail” or “Status” label.

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