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How to create a heatmap with the new GridChart
What is a heatmap chart?
Heatmaps are two-dimensional representations of data that show magnitudes as colors. A color variation - may be based on hue or intensity - gives a clear indication to the reader of how the data measured is distributed or varies over space.
The result should be a data piece that doesn't require a lot of explanation. Typically, warm high-contrast colors are used to represent high-value data points, while cool colors represent low-value data points in heatmaps.
Most common Birth Dates (US)
The chart above is an excellent use case for a heatmap, it is simple and straight to the point. Births are fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with a slight bias towards the summer months. The average number of births drops significantly on some days, such as 4th July, 24th-25th December, and January 1st.
There is also a very popular version control product out there that displays a punch-card-like activity chart like the one below that I think is an excellent implementation of a heatmap.
With the February 22 release, the Grid Chart will be your first choice when it comes to heatmaps. In addition to all the features that one expects in a Grid Chart, there is now a shortcut that lets us create a heatmap just like that.
Remember that this chart is especially useful if it is self-explanatory, so try to avoid complex combinations of dimensions. This chart is best suited to time-series-based dimensions.
Enjoy it!
Arturo