Page:Graphic methods for presenting facts (1914).djvu/26

6 on account of the cost. In printed reports, in magazine articles, and in magazine advertising, color printing is not at the present time commonly available. The illustrations of this book will accordingly show what can be done in printing complex charts with only one color of ink, under the same conditions that would be found in the preparation of material for magazine articles, printed reports, and ordinary prospectus or other advertising matter.

Fig. 2 is a form of chart used probably more widely than any other form to show component parts. The circle with sectors is not a desirable form of presentation, however, because it does not have nearly such flexibility as the method shown in Fig. 1. The sector method does not permit of convenient arrangement of names for the different components. Note that the direction of the lettering must be reversed as the eye proceeds around the circle. In this case, "Interest and Dividends" reads upward while "Materials, Rents, Traveling Expenses, etc." reads downward. Another disadvantage of the sector method is the impossibility of placing figures in such manner that they can be easily compared or added. The horizontal-bar method permits of placing figures so as to keep the decimal points in line, thus making it possible to add the whole column of figures relating to the various components.

The sector method is probably so widely known through presentation in exhibits, illustrations for popular magazines, etc., that it is more generally understood than any other method now in use. The more easy reading of the wedge or sector chart is, however, largely due to habit. If the horizontal-bar method of Fig. 1 were used as frequently as the sector method, it would be found in every way more desirable