Advanced Excel · Intermediate level

Intermediate level · Module 4: Interactive Dashboards and Sharing Workbooks · Lesson 1 of 3

Dashboards on Data Models

Build dashboards from model-based PivotTables, measures and connected slicers.

In this lesson you will

  • Build PivotTables and charts from the data model
  • Connect slicers across a dashboard

Key concepts

model-based PivotTablesmeasures on dashboardsconnected slicersCUBE functions (overview)

The lesson

PivotTables and PivotCharts built on the data model use its measures, so every chart applies the same definitions.

Connect slicers for location, item and period to all dashboard elements so one choice updates everything.

For custom layouts, CUBE functions can place single model values in any cell, such as a key figure card.

Step by step

  1. Build three model-based PivotCharts.
  2. Add and connect slicers.
  3. Create key figure cards from measures.
  4. Arrange the dashboard.

Practice activity

Build the reporting system's dashboard.

Expected result: An interactive dashboard driven entirely by the data model.

Check your understanding

  1. Why build dashboards on model measures?

    Show answer

    Every chart uses the same, consistent definitions.

  2. What does connecting slicers achieve?

    Show answer

    One selection updates every element of the dashboard.

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