Intermediatecomparison
Bullet Chart
Compare a primary measure against a target and qualitative ranges in a compact format.
Quick Facts
Complexity
intermediate
Category
comparison
Bullet Chart · Example Data
When to use a Bullet Chart
- KPI dashboards showing actual vs. target
- Performance tracking with multiple metrics in a small space
- Replacing gauges or thermometer charts
- Budget vs. actuals reporting
About the Bullet Chart
Designed by Stephen Few as a replacement for dashboard gauges, the bullet chart encodes a primary measure (e.g., actual revenue), a comparative target marker (e.g., budget), and qualitative performance ranges (e.g., poor/satisfactory/good) — all in a compact horizontal bar.
Bullet charts pack enormous information density into small space, making them ideal for KPI dashboards. They replace gauges and thermometer charts which waste space and convey less information.