Charts / Glossary
Hierarchy
A chart word, with the charts that use it.
Definition
A hierarchy is parts that sit inside other parts, several levels deep. Hierarchy charts nest them, so both the parts and their groups read at once.
Updated Nov 2, 2026
- 01The groupsEach category is one colour block.
- 02The parts insideSubcategories as tiles inside their group.
Where you see it
022 · SunburstPart of a whole · AI data
030 · TreemapPart of a whole · E-commerce data
068 · IciclePart of a whole · AI data
Common mistakes
Too many levels
Past three levels the smallest parts vanish. Show two, and let people drill in.
Flat data in a hierarchy chart
One level of parts reads better as a donut or bars.
Questions
Treemap, sunburst or icicle?
A treemap for many parts at once, a sunburst for a round view, an icicle when names need room.
How deep can a hierarchy go?
Two or three levels read well on one card.
Every chart word, A to Z.
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