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Figure-ground principle

As explained in Everyday Data Visualization

The figure-ground principle is a perceptual distinction in which visual elements are organized as foreground figures against a background.

The figure-ground principle describes how perception separates prominent foreground elements from their surrounding background. In dashboard design, a quieter background helps important information stand out. section 8.4.3

A quieter dashboard background

A dashboard uses a lighter version of its logo blue as the background, surrounding foreground information with literal white space. The contrast makes key metrics easier to distinguish. section 8.4.3

Use the principle to support visual hierarchy:

  • Reserve stronger visual emphasis for the information users need to notice first. section 8.4.3
  • Keep the surrounding background sufficiently quiet that figures do not compete with it. section 8.4.3

How Everyday Data Visualization covers it

How deep it goes
Defines perceptual foreground-background separation and demonstrates one visual application, without developing deeper perceptual mechanics.
Examples
Uses a lighter blue dashboard background and white space to separate foreground metrics from surrounding areas.
What you can do after
Apply it by choosing quieter backgrounds that help important dashboard information read as foreground.
How it connects
Links figure-ground with Gestalt principles, enclosure, visual hierarchy, contrast, and white space.
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This explainer was generated by Manning's knowledge graph from the text of Everyday Data Visualization. The section links point to the parts of the book it draws on.