Scatter charts are a powerful way to visualize relationships between two numeric values, helping you identify patterns, trends, and outliers in your data.
Plan Availability | All plan types |
Permissions | General Access: Can view charts. Solution Creators: Can create and configure Scatter Charts. |
What is a Scatter Chart?
A scatter chart uses small dots to represent values of two different numeric fields, such as:
Height vs. Weight
Price vs. Square Footage
Revenue vs. Expenses
By using a scatter chart, you can quickly see correlations and patterns in your data.
When to Use a Scatter Chart
Use scatter charts when:
Comparing large numbers of data points.
Looking for correlations between two variables.
Identifying patterns or clusters in your data.
Spotting anomalies or outliers.
When to Avoid a Scatter Chart
If you need to show parts of a whole, consider a Pie Chart.
If you have only a few data points, another chart type may be more effective.
If data has a periodic component, Bar, Column, or Line charts may be better suited.
Configuring a Scatter Chart in SmartSuite
Steps to Create a Scatter Chart
Add a New Chart View
Select Scatter Chart Type in Chart Settings.
Choose Values for X-Axis and Y-Axis.
Use Group By to color-code data points.
Selecting Scatter Chart Values
Scatter charts require two numeric fields:
X-Axis (Horizontal Values)
Y-Axis (Vertical Values)
All numeric field types (Number, Currency, Formulas outputting numbers) are available for selection.
Using Group By for Color Coding
Grouping allows you to differentiate data points by assigning colors based on categories such as:
Single Select Fields
Date Fields
Other list-type fields
Additional Chart Features
Chart Total
Display aggregate values such as:
Sum, Average, Count, or Maximum of a numeric field.
Benchmark Line
Add a reference line for comparison by:
Naming the benchmark (optional).
Setting a numeric value.
Dynamic Filters
Apply filters dynamically, such as Content Status, to refine displayed data.
Advanced Options
Show Data Labels: Display individual values on the chart.
Show X-Axis Label: Enable axis labels for clarity.
Show Y-Axis Label: Improve readability by labeling the vertical axis.
Scatter Chart Use Cases
1. Large Number of Values
Scenario: Analyzing height vs. weight across thousands of data points.
Solution: Use a scatter chart to visualize patterns and groupings clearly.
2. Identifying Outliers
Scenario: Detecting anomalies in revenue vs. expense trends.
Solution: Scatter charts help highlight unusual data points that may require further investigation.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively use scatter charts to gain insights and make data-driven decisions.