Charts That Communicate Progress

[Workbook]

I am trying to select charts that will lend themselves well to communicating
progress. For example, Pie Charts don't tend to be a good way for
communicating progress whereas another type of Chart might be more effective.
In other words here is where we were, here is where we are, and here is
where we want to be. What would you recommend?

 

[Dave Curtis]

Hi,

Sounds like you need some sort of Gannt chart.

Dave

 

[smartin]

I am trying to select charts that will lend themselves well to communicating
progress. For example, Pie Charts don't tend to be a good way for
communicating progress whereas another type of Chart might be more effective.
In other words here is where we were, here is where we are, and here is
where we want to be. What would you recommend?

Perhaps a "bullet" chart?

See Charley Kyd's article here:
http://www.exceluser.com/explore/bullet.htm

More discussion on Jon Peltier's site here:
http://peltiertech.com/WordPress/in-cell-bullet-charts/

 

[Workbook]

That's what I was thinking but I was told they are only good for
communicating start and finish dates in a project. How would you use a Gannt
Chart to show progress?

 

[Workbook]

Wow, I checked out the links, thank you this is the type of chart I am
looking for. I appreciate you're input, this is a great recommendation.

 

[Dave Curtis]

Hi,
With appropriate formatting, Gantt charts can quite easily show progress
information. I use them because they are simple to set up in Excel without
much effort. However, I admit they don't look as good as Jon's achievements.
I can send some examples if you like.

Dave