Chart configurations specify the grouping type
of the columns, bars, lines, and areas in a chart. Some examples are
standard, stacked, and 100 percent stacked charts.
Standard Charts
Standard or absolute charts are useful for comparing
specific values and for representing discrete data, such as data for
different regions or individual employees. For example, a standard
column chart that plots regional sales emphasizes the actual value
that each region achieves in sales.
Stacked Charts
Stacked charts are useful for comparing proportional
contributions within a category. They plot the relative value that
each data series contributes to the total. For example, a stacked
column chart that plots product line sales will emphasize the proportion
that each product line contributes to the total in each territory.
100 Percent Stacked Charts
100 percent stacked charts are useful for comparing
proportional contributions across all categories. They plot the relative
contribution of each data series to the total as a percentage. For
example, a 100 percent stacked column chart that plots product line
sales emphasizes the percentage within each region without referring
to actual values.
Three-dimensional Charts
Three-dimensional charts provide a visually
effective display that is suitable for presentations.
