Stacked Column Chart Data Label Connector Lines

[Erik]

I can't for the life of me figure out how to place the data labels for a
stacked column chart (# or %) (1) next to the column, then (2) have lines
connecting the data value to the proper block of the column. It does it
automatically for pie chart labels, but not columns. Anyone have insight
into these two issues? Thanks in advance.

 

[Luke M]

Not a solution, but explaination:

XL won't let you place the labels by design to the side because its possible
to place stacked columns next to each other (gap width = 0). This would then
make it look like the values were associated with wrong column, causing
confusion. Thus, to ensure that the value is within correct area, you can
choose middle, inside top, or inside bottom. (and thus, no need for a
connector line)

A pie lets you place values outside the edge because the pie slice don't
come together that way. What you're asking would be like putting the pie
values beside the slice along where you make the cuts.

While one may argue that it would have been nice to have the option for
those who know how to make charts properly, I'm glad this feature exists to
keep less knowledgeable people from making graphs that can be easily
misinterpreted.

 

[Shane Devenshire]

Hi,

You can't get connector lines as you call them but you can reposition the
data lables. The hard way is one label at a time, the easy way is to use a
free Add-in line the one below:

http://www.appspro.com/Utilities/ChartLabeler.htm

 

[Jon Peltier]

Pies are the only charts with this automatic connector line feature. Are the
column data points too thin to be labeled using the built-in positions for
stacked charts? How many stacks are there in the chart? There may be a
better way to represent the data.

- Jon
-------
Advanced Excel Conference - June 17-18 2009 - Charting and Programming
http://peltiertech.com/Training/2009-06-ACNJ/AdvExcelConf200906ACNJ.html

Jon Peltier, Peltier Technical Services, Inc.
http://PeltierTech.com/WordPress/
_______

 

[Jon Peltier]

The underlying concept is that, if the labels aren't doing what you want,
you should try another chart type.

- Jon
-------
Advanced Excel Conference - June 17-18 2009 - Charting and Programming
http://peltiertech.com/Training/2009-06-ACNJ/AdvExcelConf200906ACNJ.html

Jon Peltier, Peltier Technical Services, Inc.
http://PeltierTech.com/WordPress/
_______