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# How to customize composite indicators on a dashboard
- URL: https://blog.jestor.com/how-to-style-composite-indicators/
- Published: 2026-09-16T18:50:29.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-16T18:50:29.000Z
- Author: Bruno Bannach

**Composite indicators on a dashboard** cross two or more variables to produce a result, such as an approval rate or a ratio, instead of displaying a single field value. In **Jestor**, these now carry the same styling options as the simple indicator: format, decimal places and conditional color.

## What a composite indicator actually is

A simple indicator reads one field and shows it. A composite indicator performs a calculation across variables and shows the result.

That distinction matters because the composite is usually the number a manager cares about. Total sales is data. Conversion rate is a decision.

Where composites earn their place:

- Conversion rate across stages
- Approval rate against total requests
- Average ticket from revenue and volume
- Margin from price and cost
- Consumption against a planned budget

## Styling options available

| Option                  | What it enables                            | Example                               |
| ----------------------- | ------------------------------------------ | ------------------------------------- |
| Format                  | Percentage, currency or abbreviated number | Conversion rate shown as a percentage |
| Decimal places          | How many digits appear after the point     | Average ticket with two decimals      |
| Conditional color       | Changes as the result crosses a threshold  | Green at or above target, red below   |
| Font and title emphasis | Visual weight on a busy panel              | Key metric standing out               |
| Variables displayed     | Shows the inputs beneath the result        | Understanding how it was calculated   |

## Step by step to configure it

1. **Open the composite indicator** in its edit view.
2. **Go to the style tab**, where the options now match the simple indicator.
3. **Choose the format**, according to what the calculation actually represents.
4. **Set the decimal places**, keeping only the precision that is meaningful.
5. **Configure conditional color** for the value and the background, against a reference.
6. **Decide whether to show the variables** beneath the result.

## Why consistency across indicator types matters

When simple and composite indicators share a styling engine, a visual rule applied to one can be repeated on the other without reconfiguring from scratch. On a panel holding dozens of indicators, that consistency is what keeps it readable.

- **Same options on both types:** no separate mental model
- **Classic model still available:** it also received the styling upgrades
- **Variables optional:** show the calculation or hide it
- **Color as a signal:** the result announces itself before being read

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What differentiates a composite from a simple indicator?

The composite crosses more than one variable to produce a calculation. The simple one displays a field value. See [jestor.com](https://www.jestor.com/?ref=blog.jestor.com).

### Can I apply conditional color to a composite indicator?

Yes, to both the value and the background, against a reference you define.

### Did the classic composite model disappear?

No. It remains available and also received the styling upgrades.

## Video Tutorial: Step by Step

With **Jestor**, you can automate workflows, connect teams, and build internal systems your way, all without code and powered by **AI**. Discover Jestor at [jestor.com](https://www.jestor.com/?ref=blog.jestor.com) and see how to take your company's operations to a new level of efficiency and control.