Articles on: Dashboards

Using Chart Images in Presentations: Best Practices & FAQ's

Best Practice & FAQs: Using Dashboard Chart Images in Presentations


Overview

Onos dashboards are designed to provide live, interactive visibility of your data. Where possible, we recommend using the dashboard directly in meetings or reviews so users can apply filters, drill into records, and view the most up-to-date information.
However, there may be times when you need to include dashboard charts in a PowerPoint presentation, report pack or meeting document. In these cases, follow the best practice guidance below to make sure chart images are clear, accurate and easy to understand.


Taking chart images for PowerPoint


1. Set your filters first

Before taking a screenshot, check that the correct filters are applied.
This may include:

  • project
  • division
  • region
  • date range
  • module
  • status
  • responsible person
  • customer-specific filters

Only capture the chart once the dashboard is showing the data you want to present.


2. Use a clear date range

Make sure the reporting period is clear before taking the image.
For example:

  • This month
  • Last month
  • Year to date
  • Previous 12 months
  • Custom date range

Where possible, include the date range in the slide title or supporting text so the audience understands what period the chart relates to.


3. Capture one chart at a time

For the clearest result, capture one chart or one dashboard card at a time rather than a full-page screenshot.
This helps keep the image readable when added to PowerPoint.


4. Zoom the screen to what is needed

Before taking the screen grab, zoom your browser in or out so the chart is displayed clearly and only the information you need is visible.
This can help reduce unnecessary space around the chart and make the final image easier to read when placed into a PowerPoint slide.


5. Keep the correct aspect ratio

When adding the screen grab to PowerPoint, avoid stretching the image, as this can distort the chart and make text harder to read.
Crop the image to the required size first, then resize it using the corner handles to keep the correct aspect ratio. Avoid dragging from the side or top/bottom edges, as this can stretch the image.


6. Avoid cutting off chart labels

When taking or cropping the screenshot, make sure the full chart is visible, including:

  • chart title
  • axis labels
  • legends
  • values
  • filters or context where needed

Avoid cropping too tightly, as this can remove important information.


7. Use high-quality screenshots

Use your device’s built-in screenshot or snipping tool and capture the chart at a large enough size.
Avoid stretching small images in PowerPoint, as this can make text and chart labels blurry.


8. Add context on the slide

A chart image should be supported by a short explanation.
Where useful, include:

  • what the chart is showing
  • the reporting period
  • filters applied
  • key trend or takeaway
  • any action required

This helps make the slide useful even for people who were not involved in preparing the dashboard.


FAQ

Should I use screenshots or the live dashboard?

Use the live dashboard where possible. Screenshots are useful for static reports, board packs, client presentations or where users will not have direct access to Onos during the meeting.


How do I make sure the screenshot is accurate?

Check the dashboard filters, date range and chart title before taking the screenshot. If the chart will be used externally, consider adding the reporting period and applied filters to the slide.


Can I use dashboard screenshots for external reporting?

Yes, where appropriate. Before sharing externally, check that the data, filters and permissions are correct, and that the screenshot does not include sensitive or internal-only information.


What is the best way to capture a chart?

Capture the individual chart or card at a large size using your device’s screenshot or snipping tool. Zoom the screen to show what is needed, crop the image to size, and resize it in PowerPoint using the corner handles so the chart does not stretch or distort.


What should I include with the chart?

Include a clear slide title, the reporting period, any key filters used, and a short summary of the main message or action required.


What should I check before sharing?

Dashboard screenshots are static images, so always check that the data, filters and reporting period are correct before sharing or presenting.

Updated on: 05/08/2026