React chart example
Sparse heatmap
Reveal patterns in incomplete datasets while keeping missing combinations distinct from measured values.
Options apply to compatible charts.
Synthetic sample data · 7 observations across 3 teams and 4 quarters, with missing combinations.
What is a sparse heatmap?
A sparse heatmap represents a grid in which some category combinations have no observations. The empty spaces are part of the information: they distinguish absent records from cells that contain a measured value of zero.
When to use it
Use it when missing combinations are part of the story: incomplete reporting, teams that did not exist in every period, or entries that are not applicable. Keep the grid when the location of gaps helps interpretation. If most cells are empty and only a few values need comparing, a labelled bar chart or table may be clearer.
Design tips
Explain what a blank means: not collected, not applicable or not yet available. These are different states even if the first version of the chart renders them similarly.
Preserve the expected category order so an absent combination can be located. Do not hide an entire period merely because it contains no records.
Use an actual numeric zero when zero was measured. Keep it visually distinguishable from an empty cell, especially on very pale colour scales.
Graphy Chart SDK
Add Graphy’s sparse heatmaps to your React app.
Ship quickly with one maintained SDK, without building and maintaining the entire charting experience yourself.