Heatmap is defined as a graphical representation of data using colors to visualize the value of the matrix. In this to represent more common values or higher activities brighter colors basically reddish colors are used and to less common or activity values darker colors are preferred. Heatmap is also defined by the name of the shading matrix.
To create a highlight table to explore how profit varies across regions, product sub-categories, and customer segments, follow these steps:
- Connect to the Sample - Superstore data source.
- Drag the Segment dimension to Columns.
- Tableau creates headers with labels derived from the dimension member names.
- Drag the Region and Sub-Category dimensions to Rows, dropping Sub-Category to the right of Region.
- Now you have a nested table of categorical data (that is, the Sub-Category dimension is nested within the Region dimension).
- Drag the Profit measure to Color on the Marks card.
- Tableau aggregates the measure as a sum. The color legend reflects the continuous data range.
- In this view, you can see data for only the Central region. Scroll down to see data for other regions.
- In the Central region, copiers are shown to be the most profitable sub-category, and binders and appliances the least profitable.
- Click Color on the Marks card to display configuration options. In the Border drop-down list, select a medium gray color for cell borders, as in the following image:
- Now it’s easier to see the individual cells in the view:
- The default color palette is Orange-Blue Diverging. A Red-Green Diverging palette might be more appropriate for profit. To change the color palette and to make the colors more distinct, do the following: