CATAPULT
07.20.2023Avoiding Dashboard Fatigue in a Data-Driven World
In the age of data-driven decision-making, dashboards have become an indispensable tool for businesses. However, an overuse of dashboards can lead to a phenomenon known as "dashboard fatigue." Our Analytics Mastermind Benjamin shows you how to combat it:
OVERLOAD OF DASHBOARDS
Overload of Dashboards:
Avoid duplication: Create a clear split between content to minimize redundancy. Invest time in making dashboards customizable, so you're not recycling reports with overlapping content.
The Navigation Problem:
I truly believe that it is important to have an open data-sharing culture. People should have access to as much data as possible.
But this also causes the issue of having access to many dashboards that are of low relevance. I call this the "navigation problem."
Structure in Navigation:
People need one main access point where they have an intuitive overview of all available dashboards. From there, they need to be able to directly navigate to them.
Common Structures:
• Channel first: where you first navigate into the channel (Amazon, Otto, eBay, Walmart...) and below that, you find the topics (Media, Sales, Logistics...)
• Discipline first: where you start with the discipline (Media, Sales, Logistics) and below that, you find the Channel (Amazon, Otto, eBay...)
Add clear communication and labels. Call things for what they are like: "Amazon Sales" instead of "Amazon retail analytics reporting"
TRAINING VS. INTUITIVENESS
Consistency is Key
Like a well-branded product, consistency in design and functionality across reports can reduce confusion. Creating reports with clear naming conventions and maintaining the same design layout can significantly reduce training requirements.
To everyone, it is okay to not use every dashboard available. Dashboards serve the purpose of supporting you with information to take more impactful actions. Don't feel pressured to utilize everything that is available.
THE NEXT TOPIC
Stay tuned!
In my next post, I'll go into more detail about how we use a "user-centered design approach" to create dashboards that people love to use. Follow me or keep an eye on my updates to learn how you can make your dashboards more intuitive and engaging.
