You have probably seen a "Funnel" graph before, either in a sales report or sales force application. Funnel graphs are an excellent method of displaying data that demonstrates contribution and market share.

For example, most applications that use funnel graphics use them to demonstrate sales figures or prospects. Commonly they are used to indicate what is in the "pipeline" of future sales or to display current sales.

With the release of Crystal Reports 10, you can now add Funnel graphs to your reports from the standard chart expert.

Funnel Graphs in Crystal Reports 10

To add a Funnel chart to your report, select Insert > Chart to open the Chart Expert and locate and select the Funnel category at the bottom of the list of chart types.

Next, use the data tab to specify where you want to place the chart, as well as the layout and data for the chart. Once you have inserted a Funnel chart into your report, it behaves just like any other chart. If you have based your chart on a group and summary field you can use the chart to drill-down and you have the same formatting and display options as other chart types (bar, line, etc.)

It is important to note that Funnel charts aren't really that effective with large data sets, so you may want to consider using TopN (i.e. Top 10) analysis if you are using an Advanced Graph or Group Sorting (Report > Group Sort Expert) if you have inserted your chart based on a group and summary field.

Applies to: Crystal Reports 10

David McAmis (editor@crystaldevelopersjournal.com) is the editor of Crystal Developers Journal. When not editing CDJ, he works as an enterprise architect and lead developer for a Crystal Decisions Enterprise Partner based in Sydney, Australia.

© Copyright 2006 by Crystal Developers Journal

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