Mekko charts (also called Marimekko charts) are powerful data visualization tools that enable businesses to analyze complex market dynamics at a glance. Unlike traditional charts that use a single dimension, Mekko charts utilize both width and height to represent different variables simultaneously, creating a comprehensive visual story of your data.
What Makes Mekko Charts Unique?
Mekko charts stand out by displaying two critical variables at once: column width typically represents market size or segment volume, while column height shows percentage distribution across categories. This dual-dimension approach creates rectangular segments whose area directly corresponds to their absolute value—providing immediate visual insight into both relative and absolute importance.
Key Business Applications
Market analysts rely on Mekko charts to identify profitable segments, track competitive positioning, and discover untapped opportunities. These visualizations excel at portfolio analysis, product mix evaluation, and resource allocation planning. By revealing relationships between market segments and competitive standing, Mekko charts help decision-makers identify where to invest resources for maximum impact.
When to Use Mekko Charts
Mekko charts are ideal when you need to compare distributions across categories of varying importance. They shine in scenarios requiring analysis of:
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Market share across different segments
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Product performance across regions
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Revenue distribution by customer type and product line
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Resource allocation across departments and initiatives
By translating complex data relationships into intuitive visual patterns, Mekko charts enable faster decision-making and more effective communication of business insights across your organization.
