- Maps should be chosen as the format when it’s the best way to present the data. Consider tables, charts, and other formats too.
- Maps should be simple, and should present just one data point, or one story, so it’s not too complex. Any additional information can be presented in another way (a second map, table, chart, infographic, or text.)
- Certain maps may have a poor mobile experience. Maps can be used on desktop and tablet, but an alternative format may be suggested for mobile.
- On desktop and tablet, the responsiveness of the maps on different screen sizes and resolution varies (i.e. different tablets, small laptops, browser window resizing) and should be tested to ensure a consistent and accessible user experience.
- Hover and click interactions should not disappoint; they must provide meaningful and expected information to the user.
- Legends should generally be displayed as HTML below the maps, rather than being a part of the PowerBI.
- Acronyms for provinces and territories can be used if data values are not being displayed. Avoid crowding by not including both the acronyms and data values together.
- Because PEI is small, the island should always have a pulled out zoomed-in view.
- Gradients can be considered as a way to show intensity. This choice is map-dependent.
- Use grey to represent a jurisdiction where no data is available or where no action is being taken on the data point.
- Colour combinations must be accessible, so choose between a black font or white font against the background colour, according to this colour contrast checker. Also, CPAC brand colours must be used.
Note about data collection
Data should be measured in the same way. When data is not measured consistently across jurisdictions, such as different age groups or different methods, a map may not be the best way to display the information. Inconsistent data would make the use of colour gradients misleading, would demand multiple footnotes, and would not provide a straightforward “state of the nation” view.
