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Symmetric Bar Chart Creation Guide

1. Overview​

A symmetric bar chart is used to compare two related or opposing metrics. The chart is centered on a baseline, with each metric extending in opposite directions (left/right or up/down), enabling clear visual comparison.

Common use cases:

  • Store performance analysis: Compare revenue and refunds across stores to identify high-risk locations.
  • Inventory flow comparison: Compare inbound and outbound quantities across warehouses to monitor turnover.

2. Example: Comparing Store Revenue and Refunds​

Using a Retail Management worksheet as an example, the goal is to compare each store’s revenue and refund amounts for the current quarter.

Prerequisites: Check Your Data Structure

A symmetric bar chart requires two independent metrics. Confirm your worksheet structure and choose the appropriate configuration:

  • Structure A: Two-field design (Recommended)
    If your worksheet already includes two fields (e.g., Sales Amount and Refund), you can configure the chart directly. This example uses this structure.

  • Structure B: Single field + type
    If both revenue and refunds are stored in a single Amount field and differentiated only by Order Type, a symmetric chart cannot be generated directly.

    Recommended approach:
    Use a formula field to split refund values (e.g., IF(Type = 'Refund', Amount, 0)), or use a rollup field in to pre-calculate both metrics.

Step 1: Filter Data​

Before configuring the chart, define the data scope.

  • Action: In the Data Source, select all records and add a filter: set Sales Date to This Quarter.

  • Key point: Filtering ensures all calculations focus only on the current quarter, avoiding interference from historical data.

Step 2: Define Analysis Dimensions​

After selecting a symmetric bar chart, configure the axes.

  1. Set Dimension: In Dimension, select the Store field.

  2. Set Metrics (Value):

    • Direction 1 (Value): Select Sales Amount, aggregation method Sum.
    • Direction 2 (Value): Select Refund, aggregation method Sum.

    At this point, bars will be aligned along the central axis, distributed by store.

Step 3: Configure Advanced Features​

Leverage the chart’s specific features to enhance clarity:

  1. Switch Orientation: In the configuration panel, locate the Direction option.

    • Vertical: Metrics are compared above and below the central axis.
    • Horizontal (Recommended): Metrics extend left and right, making it easier to view store rankings.

  2. Customize Axis Scale: In Style > Measurement Axis, manually set the maximum values for Direction 1 and Direction 2.

    Tip: Setting equal maximum values on both sides provides a more accurate visual comparison of refunds relative to revenue.

Step 4: Style Settings​

  1. Color Coding: In style settings, assign blue to Direction 1 and red to Direction 2.

  2. Data Labels: Enable Show Value Labels to display values at the end of each bar.

  3. Sorting Logic: It is recommended to sort by Direction 1 (Sales Amount) in descending order, so top-performing stores appear first.

3. FAQ​

  • Q: Why does my chart look like a standard grouped bar chart?

    • A: Ensure that the chart type is set to symmetric bar chart.

  • Q: If a store has no refunds in a given month, will the chart break?

    • A: No. Set Empty Value Display to Show as 0 to maintain symmetry.

  • Q: What if the two metrics have very different scales (e.g., order count vs. order amount)?

    • A: Symmetric bar charts use a shared scale, so it is best to compare metrics of similar magnitude. If the difference is too large, consider using a Dual-Axis Chart instead.