In the creation of business charts it has so far only been possible with a great deal of effort to put all sizes of graphic elements – including those of the fonts – into a consistent size ratio. After many years of trying to solve this problem, Rolf Hichert of HICHERT + FAISST has  found a solution that is as simple as convincing: the font size concept.

The font size concept is based on the idea of using the font size of a business graphic as a reference for all other sizes and proportions. For example, if the default font size is 10pt, all other important dimensions on a report page can be expressed as a multiple of these 10pt. A “pt” (Point) is equivalent to 1/72 inch.
The new unit of measurement is called “fs” for “font size”.

ALWAYS CONSISTENT

For example: For a chart, the column thickness is set to 1.0 fs, the category width is 2.0 fs, the column font spacing is set to 0.3 fs, and so on. The result: all fonts and diagram elements are in a reasonable ratio to each other, the maximum size of possible labels is clearly defined, which makes the work even easier. The chart can also be easily enlarged or reduced. Text and graphics always remain coherent. The concept can also be applied to tables and the entire layout of report pages.

APPLICATION IS MORE THAN EASY

The font size concept not only increases the legibility and usability of business charts, but also helps to significantly reduce expenses in reporting. We at HI-CHART are so convinced by this solution that we have built this feature into all Chart-me products. The application is more than simple: When you insert a chart, you choose a font size – or the font size of the page is used automatically – and the entire chart is automatically configured accordingly. All images have the same look for the viewer, regardless of whether they are thumbnails, for example, in dashboards or enlarged detail sections. Of course, the font size can be changed at any time. Then, all sizes are automatically adjusted.

MORE CLARITY IN ALL AREAS

The font size concept thus creates more clarity in all areas: In the creation of business charts, in their use in different output media, presentations and reports as well as the actual purpose: the use by managers and decision makers.