A radar chart is a graphical method of displaying audit element data in the form of a two-dimensional chart represented on axes starting the percentage of each element from the same point. 




Interpretation

Using a radar (or spider/web) chart to plot major element averages audits over multiple years can provide a visual representation of performance across audit elements. Below are examples of how to use the radar chart for decision-making and potential conclusions you might draw:


Basics

Ensure that each axis of the radar chart represents one major element from the audit. The value (or distance from the center) on each axis indicates the average score for that element.


Analyze the Shape

  • Consistent Shapes: A nearly circular shape indicates consistent performance across all elements.
  • Irregular Shapes: Peaks or troughs in the web shape point to areas of strengths and weaknesses, respectively.


Compare Yearly Performances

If you plot each year's averages on the same radar chart, you can compare the shapes to see how performance has evolved:

  • Expanding outward (radial expansion) indicates improvement.
  • Retracting (Radial contraction) inward shows decline.


Focus on Problematic Areas

Areas with consistent inward retraction over the years can be a cause for concern. It could mean that interventions from previous years weren't effective or that there are systemic issues in those areas.


Recognize Improvement Zones:

If an axis showed improvement (moved outward) from one year to the next, it indicates positive change and that strategies implemented have had an impact.


Potential Conclusions & Decisions:

  • Targeted Interventions: Direct resources and interventions towards areas of consistent weaknesses or where there's a noted decline.
  • Continuous Improvement: For areas that are showing improvement, understand what worked and consider applying those strategies to other weaker sections.
  • Strategic Planning: If some elements consistently score high, they can be leveraged as best practices. Conversely, consistently low scores may indicate a need for a complete overhaul in that area.
  • Resource Allocation: Reallocate resources from consistently high-performing areas (if they're above target and stable) to areas that need more attention.
  • Stakeholder Communication: Showcase areas of consistent improvement to stakeholders, but also be transparent about areas that need work and what's being done about them.
  • Monitor Effectiveness: If a specific intervention was applied in one year and the relevant axis showed improvement in the following year, it might indicate the effectiveness of that intervention.


Remember, while radar charts can visually simplify complex data, it's crucial to approach them with a comprehensive understanding of the data's nuances and the broader OHS context. Decisions should be data-driven, but also consider qualitative insights and ground realities.


Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radar_chart