Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 5-18:
This graph of family e-mails uses labels to indicate three
data attributes. Label size indicates number of e-mails, label color
indicates total size of e-mails (from small in amber to large in dark red
and purple), and the label text indicates the specific sender.
•
Smaller labels
—Although smaller fonts reduce overlap to improve
legibility, they are more difficult to read. Depending on the device (for
example, a laptop), 8 to 10 points could be considered a minimum size.
Ultra-high-quality printers available at high-end print shops can
produce readable fonts down to 4 points, although 4 points may be too
small for some people to read, so 5 or 6 points may be a better
minimum size, even with access to these high-quality printers.
Reinforcing Labels
Label size and color can be used to reinforce node size and color. In
Figure
vary in size and color using the same attributes as the nodes (although the
label colors are much darker versions of the node colors). This approach
can reinforce the other visual attributes, look more visually appealing, and
improve readability (somewhat) if labels partially overlap.
