> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://blog.jestor.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# What Is a Composite Indicator and How to Use It
- URL: https://blog.jestor.com/what-is-a-composite-indicator/
- Published: 2026-09-17T22:28:03.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-17T22:28:03.000Z
- Author: Bruno Bannach

A **composite indicator** crosses two or more variables to produce a result — a rate, a ratio, a percentage — rather than displaying a single value taken straight from a field.

## Why single-field indicators run out

Plenty of the numbers a manager cares about do not exist as a field anywhere.

- An approval rate, which is approvals divided by requests
- A conversion rate across two pipeline stages
- Average ticket value, derived from revenue and volume
- Any ratio that would otherwise be calculated by hand

## Classic model versus customized model

| Model          | What it shows                                       | Suited for                                          |
| -------------- | --------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------- |
| **Classic**    | The result plus the underlying variables beneath it | When readers need to see how the figure was reached |
| **Customized** | The result alone, fully styled                      | Clean panels where only the outcome matters         |

## How to configure it in Jestor

1. Open the composite indicator's edit view in **Jestor**.
2. Define the calculation — for example, dividing one variable by another, with filters applied.
3. Choose the model: classic, which keeps the variables visible, or customized.
4. Set the format — percentage, currency, or abbreviated — and the decimal places.
5. Apply alignment, background colour, title highlight, and data colour.

## Why choose Jestor for calculated metrics?

**Jestor** gives composite indicators the same styling engine as simple ones, so format, decimals, and conditional colour behave identically across a panel.

The classic model was not removed when the customized option arrived — it remains available and gained the same upgrades, so existing dashboards keep working while new ones get more control.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the difference from a simple indicator?

A composite crosses more than one variable; a simple one shows a single field value.

### Can I still see the underlying variables?

Yes, using the classic model. See [jestor.com](https://jestor.com/?ref=blog.jestor.com).

### Can I apply filters to the calculation?

Yes, filters apply to the variables used.

## Video Tutorial: Step by Step

Check out other practical tutorials on the Jestor YouTube channel.

## Get to know Jestor

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://jestor.com/?ref=blog.jestor.com) and see how to take your company's operations to a new level of efficiency and control.