You've undoubtedly seen dashboards with "% above/below target" numbers beside metrics that indicate, for example, that a metric's current value is 4% below target, 5% above target, etc.

The theory is that metrics with larger "% above/below target" indicators require more attention, but is that actually the case? In my latest video (below), I show why metrics with small "% above/below target" indicators can actually require urgent attention, and metrics with large "% above/below target" indicators can actually require no attention at all.

At the end of the video, I show how "Action Dots" draw attention to metrics that genuinely require it much more reliably. Don't believe me? Watch the video and fight me in the comments!

BTW, there are still a few spots left in my in-person Practical Charts and Practical Dashboards workshops at the beautiful offices of Hike One in Amsterdam, which kick off on Oct. 27th! Workshop info/registration: https://fienta.com/nick-desbarats-amsterdam-2025