You can define an indicator function based on the comparison between two categories. This means that a reference category is used, and the indicator is determined according to the deviation of the cell value from the reference value. The deviation can be measured in terms of absolute value, which means that it makes no difference if the cell value is over or under the reference value. Or, the deviation can be measured using ranges above and below the reference value, which are asymmetrical. This means that you can determine the required range for each indicator.
To define an indicator function based on the comparison between two categories:
- From the Data Source dialog box, select % Difference from Reference Category. The Graphical Calculation Area displays the Cell Value options.
- In the Reference Category field, from the drop-down list, select the category to which the cell value is to be compared.
- Enter values into the Graphical Calculation Area.
For example, if the category measures actual budget expenditures versus planned budget expenditures, you may determine that a deviation of up to 2% (under or over the budget) is excellent, 10% is good, between 10% and 25% is acceptable, and over 25% is cause for concern.Notes:
- The colors shown in the indicator are those selected when hitting the "Functions Indicator Button", which, by default, are those selected by the Administrator for the system.
- It is possible to use the same absolute numbers for each indicator color. This is not required; you can enter different negative and positive deviation values.
- The numbers entered should be ascending left to right. If you enter numbers that do not follow this rule, an error message will appear and the function will not be saved.
- The direction of the flags shows which comparison is inclusive. For example, any deviation larger than or equal to 25% may be represented by a red indicator; any deviation less than 25% and greater than 10% may be represented by a yellow indicator; any deviation less than or equal to 10% and larger than 2% may be represented by a green indicator; etc. You cannot control the direction of the flags.