Database Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 15-22. At first glance, this chart of returns on your 10-year investment in an ostrich ranch
looks pretty grim. But it's actually a perfectly valid and accurate (albeit imaginary) chart showing
a return of over six million dollars! When we see a chart, we tend to assume that time is displayed
horizontally from left to right and values are in the vertical axis. This ill-conceived chart runs
counter to those norms and risks being gravely misinterpreted.
Charting and Reports
Charts and graphs are classic tools for boiling a whole lot of data down to easily understand-
able information. When it comes to FileMaker, concisely presenting a large data set is going
to involve summary fields, and Summary parts on layouts. Lucky for you, charts feel right at
home in summary reports. It's important, however, to craft your charts carefully and then
place them on the right layout parts. Take a look at
Figure 15-23
. Each image shows the ex-
act same chart drawing from the exact same data. The only difference between them is the
layout part they've been placed in. Now consider
Figure 15-24
.
These images display the
same chart and data set, but with different sort orders. Ultimately, producing an accurate
chart comes down to three main rules: Pick the right fields, place the chart on the appropriate
layout part, and use the correct sort order.
Picking the Right Fields
Picking the right fields might, on its face, seem to be a pointless rule. After all, you know
which fields contain the information you want charted, right? And FileMaker won't let you
make an invalid chart, so what's the problem? The problem is that no product can prevent
you from creating a confusing or even meaningless chart. Choose fields that have accurate
and consistent data. If your chart appears in a layout's Body part, be sure you're not trying to
