KPI dashboards should help viewers understand performance quickly and decide what to do next.
Structure
Put the most important KPIs near the top. Follow them with trend charts, comparisons, and detail tables that explain the numbers.
Common KPI layout
- Top-level number charts
- Trend charts for each critical metric
- Bar charts for category comparisons
- Tables for drilldown and exception lists
- Alerts for metrics that need action
Tips
- Use consistent date filters across the dashboard.
- Keep KPI names short and specific.
- Use number formatting for currency and percentages.
- Add goals or gauge-style indicators when targets matter.
- Avoid mixing unrelated audiences in one dashboard.