Sequential data

Sequential data is any data where the order has some meaning such as age groups.

When presenting sequential data, it is best to use a single hue or small set of closely related hues.

For sequential data, shades going from pale to dark of a singular colour should be used rather than multiple colours. Our primary colour, NHS Blue (#005EB8) should be the typical colour used. Colours should progress in the direction a user would expect. For example, for a line chart tracking age groups over time, a lighter colour should be used to represent younger citizens, and a darker colour for older citizens.

Source - choosing colours

How to Choose Colours for Data Visualisations

Due to the problems with contrast ratios in this palette, there is specific advice for different chart types.

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