ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE DIFFERENT CHART FORMATS USED IN DASHBOARDS AIMED AT THE DECISION-MAKING PROCESS IN THE ADMINISTRATIVE/FINANCIAL AREA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Abstract

This article presents a Systematic Review of the Literature (RSL) on the effectiveness of chart formats used in dashboards in supporting decision-making in the administrative and financial areas. The growing importance of dashboards as strategic support tools underscores the need to understand how different visualization designs impact cognition and decision-making. The survey was conducted between September and November 2023 and included searches in the main scientific databases, such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. A total of 9,049 titles were identified, of which 19 showed full adherence to the research question. These papers have been analyzed in depth, highlighting experimental approaches that utilize methods such as EEG, eye-tracking, and cognitive load theories to assess the effectiveness of visualizations.

The results indicate that the clarity and integration of semantic and perceptual elements are determinant for the effectiveness of charts in dashboards. It has been observed that well-structured graphic designs can reduce cognitive effort, increase accuracy, and promote more assertive decisions. Limitations such as small sample size and lack of broader practical validations have been identified, suggesting opportunities for future research.

The main contribution of this article lies in the search for specific heuristics to evaluate data visualizations, promoting the theoretical and practical advancement of the field of information design. These heuristics can be applied to dashboard optimization and future experiments that explore the interplay between visual design and decisions in diverse contexts. This study reinforces the relevance of dashboards in strategic management and their ability to transform data into useful knowledge, with direct implications for organizational effectiveness.