How to customize composite indicators on a dashboard
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
- Open the composite indicator in its edit view.
- Go to the style tab, where the options now match the simple indicator.
- Choose the format, according to what the calculation actually represents.
- Set the decimal places, keeping only the precision that is meaningful.
- Configure conditional color for the value and the background, against a reference.
- 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.
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
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