Been experimenting with more visual presentations lately. Instead of showing tables of billing data, I'm using charts to show usage patterns, demand trends, etc. Mixed results so far - some clients love the visual approach, others want to see the raw numbers. What's your experience?
Visual Charts vs Data Tables?
I use both - charts in the main presentation for impact, detailed tables in appendices for backup. Best of both worlds. The visual gets their attention, the data builds credibility if they want to dig deeper.
Ted, for rate comparisons I use stacked bar charts showing different cost components - energy, demand, taxes, etc. Makes it easy to see where the savings come from. Much clearer than side-by-side rate tables.
I've started using heat maps for multi-location clients - shows which sites have the biggest opportunities at a glance. Green for good, red for problem areas. Clients seem to grasp it immediately.
Anthony, that heat map idea sounds interesting. Do you have an example you could share? Always looking for better ways to present multi-site data.
What kind of charts work best for you Clifford? I've had good luck with before/after bar charts showing monthly costs, but struggling with how to visualize complex rate schedule comparisons.
Clifford, I think it depends on technical sophistication. Engineers and facility managers often want the detailed data. Finance people usually prefer charts that tell the story quickly. I try to read the room during the presentation.