Power BI: Lollipop Charts That Pop

Key insights

• Power BI: Transform a busy bar chart into a cleaner visual by combining a thin column or line with a marker at the value end; use a combo chart or layer a scatter/line to create the lollipop effect for quick readability.
  Keep the data source simple and use the visual pane to adjust marker size and line width for a crisp result.
• Lollipop Chart: A lollipop chart pairs a slim stem with a marker to highlight each category’s value, making differences easier to spot than dense bars.
  Use it for ranked lists, KPI comparisons, and when you want one clear value per category to stand out.
• DAX Measure: Build concise measures (for example, SUM or a calculated percentage) to drive values and sorting in the visual.
  Use measures to control dynamic aspects like marker size, custom sorting, and label content so visuals update with slicers and filters.
• Data Labels: Show labels on markers only and format them to two decimals or rounded figures to reduce visual clutter.
  Place labels near the marker, avoid overlapping, and hide redundant axis labels to keep the chart readable at small sizes.
• Conditional Formatting: Apply color rules or measure-driven colors to highlight top items, targets, or negative values for instant focus.
  Use a restrained palette and contrast to guide attention without overwhelming the viewer.
• Minimal Design: Remove gridlines, reduce tick marks, and add white space so each lollipop pops against a clean background.
  Rely on concise tooltips for extra details and test the visual on mobile view to ensure accessibility and legibility.

Keywords

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