
Visualization of Performance Measures
In collaboration with the National Academy of Science (NAS), Metro Analytics has integrated successful methods and tools into a practical synthesis for practitioners. NCHRP 584 is available at Visualization of Highway Performance Measures. Metro Analytics is currently developing a playbook and video tutorial that will walk through successful visualization practices, bringing performance data to life! Create community engagement while keeping teams focused on the performance metrics that matter most!
NCHRP 52-16
Visualization of Highway Performance Measures Synthesis
Visualizing Performance Measures

Tell your performance STORY…
- Document current status
- Show trend over time
- Progress towards a target
- Help tell a performance story
- Support a policy
- Inform Long-Term Planning
- Inform Medium-Term Planning
- Inform Day-to-Day Operations
…with VISUALIZATIONS…
- Chart
- Infographic
- Map
- Dashboard
…that resonate with your AUDIENCE
Visualization Success Factors
- Simplicity in the design of the visualization
- Identify and connect with your audience
- Data is the strong foundation
- Leadership matters
Keep it simple | ![]() | Bar charts, Line Charts, Tables, and Pie charts are the most common graphics used. |
Make it clear | ![]() | Performance journalism is effective. Clearly tell the story using the headline, subhead, and a simple graphic. |
Be consistent | ![]() | Dashboards can communicate the forest and then provide access to each leaf of interest. |
Evaluate Effectiveness | ![]() | Is the visual compelling and telling the right story? Is the message being understood? |
Tell a data story | ![]() | Know your audience. Keep it simple. Answer the question. Inspire action through story. |
How to do visualization well
Metro Analytics has been working with agencies all over the United States to identify the best ways to visualize transportation performance. We are proud to have had the opportunity to lead the first synthesis that the NAS has undertaken to research and compile the practices of states, municipalities and MPOs on how to effectively visualize performance.
What can you expect?
- Methods and tools to bring your performance data to life
- Playbook
- Video tutorial
- Collaboration with a nationally recognized visualization expert.
This investigation was sponsored by TRB under the NCHRP Program. The contents of this presentation have not been reviewed by the project panel or NCHRP, nor do they constitute a standard, specification, or regulation.