- Published
- 8 October 2026
- Last reviewed
- 8 October 2026
Review the intended use
Identify the audience and the decision the dashboard supports. Ask which questions it answers and which it does not. A display containing many measures can still leave the reader uncertain about what needs attention.
The fictional example is a learning-enquiry dashboard showing recorded enquiries by topic and period. The review concerns its usefulness and clarity, rather than the choice of a particular software product.
Check counts and comparisons
Verify what the totals represent. Confirm the date range, active filters and treatment of duplicates or missing classifications. Reconcile a small sample against the authorised source and investigate differences before publication.
For a rate or percentage, state the numerator and denominator. A percentage based only on classified enquiries differs from one based on every enquiry. Keep an unknown category visible where its omission would change interpretation.
Check how people read the display
Use clear titles and units. Make filter selections and update information visible. Avoid relying only on colour to distinguish outcomes. Review keyboard access and the information available to people who cannot use the visual display.
The Government Analysis Function provides guidance on building and managing dashboards. Use it for broader design considerations; this RDE checklist is a practical introductory aid and does not certify accessibility compliance.
Explain limits and maintenance
State data coverage, known quality issues and any definitions that changed. Include an owner or contact for questions and agree how the dashboard will be maintained. An outdated display can lead readers to treat old information as current.
Download the PDF or editable Word checklist. Review a fictional dashboard first, record issues and assign each a next action. Test changes with the intended audience before treating the display as ready to support decisions.
Source and practice note
The Government Analysis Function dashboard guidance provides the background for this review exercise. The examples and exercises are original RDE learning material using fictional situations.
Cover image: AI-generated illustrative scene created specifically for this resource.
Download and complete the exercise
Download the editable Word document
Printable PDF and editable Word document. Version 2.0, 8 October 2026. Personal and internal organisational adaptation permitted with Jefferson Otonbara Imgbi author credit retained.