Trying to find the data point you are looking for in Tableau can be truly puzzling. For easy recognition, you need a table that visually distinguishes your data.

This is precisely what the heatmap in Tableau addresses. Using colors, it represents both high and low numbers in easy-to-spot patterns.

This makes your data in Tableau look more engaging.

Wondering how you can implement it in your tables? Don’t worry, as I have shared everything you will require in this guide below.

Let’s begin!

What is a Tableau Heatmap?

 

Think of a Tableau heatmap as a chart showing data, similar to a weather map. Much like a weather map, it turns simple digits into colored squares to show visual comparisons. 

Instead of focusing on the data itself, you can easily understand if it’s higher or lower using colors.

How does Tableau Heatmap use these colors? Actually, it’s very simple:

  • Hot Colors (Red/Orange): Shows high values. 
  • Cool Colors (Blue/Green): Shows low values

Using these colors, your data is neatly organized into coloured squares. Each color represents the value inside the box. This creates a visual story that any reader can understand immediately.

When Should You Use a Heatmap? 


Having a deep understanding of when to use heatmap charts can ensure that you apply them only when needed.

In my experience, heatmaps are great for:

  • Comparing different data points like regions or products all at once. 
  • Finding your best and worst performers. 
  • Searching for patterns and groups that you may miss otherwise.

Note that Heatmaps are not the best way to understand each number. It is only helpful in identifying macro trends and patterns forming in your table.

How to Create a Heatmap in Tableau: 5 Easy Steps

 

Let’s understand how exactly you can create your own heatmap through the use of Tableau:

 

Step

What to Do in Tableau

Why You Do It

1

Drag your categories to Rows and Columns. (e.g., Region to Rows, Category to Columns).

This builds the grid. Each square will be one unique combination.

2

On the "Marks" card, change the mark type to Square.

This tells Tableau to use squares, which are perfect for heatmaps.

3

Drag your main measure (like Profit) to the Color button on the Marks card.

This makes the squares change color based on your data. High values get intense colors.

4

(Optional) Drag another measure (like Sales) to the Size button.

This makes the squares bigger or smaller, adding a second layer of information.

5

Click the Color shelf to pick a better color palette.

This makes your heatmap clearer. For profit, a "Red-Green Diverging" palette is great.

 

If you follow these steps, you can easily create your own heatmaps in Tableau. 

 

Just make sure that you use the right color palette and keep your data organised. This will help you create interactive dashboards in Tableau.

Tips for Creating a Clear Heatmap


Here are some things you should keep in mind while making a Heatmap in Tableau:

  • Keep the table straightforward. Too many rows and columns can make the heatmap appear messy. 
  • Use colors smartly. In a profit/loss table, use green for profit and red for loss in your heatmap. This will ensure that any reader can easily identify your data based on its color.  
  • You can use Tooltips to hide numbers inside the cells. This helps in making your heatmaps in Tableau cleaner. If a user needs to see the exact data behind a square, they can just hover their cursor over the cell.

Conclusion 


It is vital to learn how to create a heatmap in Tableau so that you can use it in your daily workflow. With our increasing dependence on data, we need the easy visualisation of insights and patterns provided by such Heatmaps.

But what if the data you are planning to use is very complicated? What if you require the assistance of an expert?

This is where our team at Augmented Systems steps in. We are data visualisation consultants who can show you exactly how you can tell your story through Tableau.

Our 6+ years of experience have made us highly efficient at partnering with global teams and businesses. We can help your teams learn how to use such technical capabilities and implement them effectively.

Ready to use heatmaps in your own Tableau tables? Contact us and schedule a quick call with our team today!

FAQs 

1. What is a Tableau heatmap?

A Tableau heatmap is a visualization that uses color intensity in a grid to show data values, making it easy to spot highs, lows, and patterns at a glance.

2. When should I use a heatmap in Tableau?

You should use a heatmap in Tableau when you need to compare performance across many categories (like products and regions) or quickly identify concentrations and outliers in a dense table of data.

3. How do I change the colors in my Tableau heatmap?

Click on the Color shelf on the Marks card. From there, you can select a new palette, reverse the colors, or edit the gradient to make your Tableau heatmap more transparent and more intuitive.

4. Can a data visualization consultant help me build better dashboards?

Yes. A professional data visualization consultant can help you design effective Tableau heatmaps and integrate them into dashboards that tell a clear story, ensuring your data drives actionable decisions.

5. What are data visualization services?

Data visualization services include expert help with the entire process. This includes preparing your data, building charts such as heatmaps in Tableau, and designing complete, interactive dashboards that meet your specific business goals.