Using a Word Cloud Visualization

This applies to: Managed Dashboards, Managed Reports

The Word Cloud (also known as Tag Cloud) data visualization displays text with color and size emphasis based on measures.

Note: Other data visualizations may be better for data analysis.

Data Preparation

To follow the examples in this article, connect to the Adventure Works sample database for SQL Server. Locate the following dimension from the [Person].[Person] table:

• FirstName

And the following measures from the [Sales].[SalesPerson] table:

• SalesYTD

• Bonus

Add a Word Cloud Visualization

While editing a dashboard, use the Data Visualization option from the toolbar and select Word Cloud.

Drag FirstName and drop it under Rows in the Data Analysis Panel.

The visualization is displayed as a jumble of all the names in the FirstName dimension.

Drag SalesYTD and drop it under Measures.

The salespeople names are automatically resized according to their year-to-date sales.

You can adjust the range of text sizing by changing the minimum and maximum font size properties.

Important: Words that do not fit within the word cloud given these settings may be excluded. To ensure all words are included, adjust the set maximum font size or the size of the word cloud so that the longest possible word/text will always fit.

Change the Text Color

Select Visualization in the Data Analysis Panel.

Drag the Bonus measure and drop it under Text Color.

The color of each name is now defined by its Bonus amount. You can further adjust the color scheme in the Properties window by customizing the color rules in the Design tab.

Adjust the Text Layout

For more information, see:

• Setting Up the Visualization

• Apply Colors to Data Points or Series Using Color Rules