Which of the following is a best practice for dashboard design?

Ensuring consistency in design is recognized as a best practice for dashboard design because it enhances the user experience and improves data comprehension. Consistency allows users to easily understand the information presented, as familiar layouts, color schemes, and fonts reduce cognitive load. When similar elements are used throughout the dashboard, users can quickly locate key data points and metrics they need, fostering a more efficient workflow.

Moreover, consistent design helps in creating a unified look and feel, which reinforces brand identity and aids in visual storytelling. A well-structured and coherent dashboard leads to faster decision-making, as users do not have to adjust to new designs or unfamiliar layouts each time they access the dashboard.

In contrast, including as many metrics as possible can overwhelm users with information, use of flashy and complex visualizations can distract from the key messages, and a focus solely on aesthetic elements can sacrifice usability and clarity. Therefore, prioritizing consistency is crucial for effective dashboard design.