While analyzing the performance of different product sub-categories in our retail dataset, I created a dual-axis chart in Tableau to compare Sales and Profit side by side. The bars in the chart represent total sales for each sub-category, while the lines show the profit.
This visualization in a dual-axis chart helped us identify categories that were generating high revenue but giving low profits or even losses. For example, Phones and Chairs had the highest sales figures, each exceeding $ 300,000, but their profits were lower compared to Copiers, which had lower sales but the highest profit.
In this blog, I will explain about the dual-axis chart in Tableau and the method through which we can create a dual-axis chart in Tableau.
What is a Dual Axis Chart in Tableau?
In a Tableau dual-axis chart, we can display two measures with different units on the same visualization, using separate axes overlaid on each other. This is useful when comparing data that might not be comparable on a single axis, such as sales and their profit percentage.
Check out: Tableau Gauge Chart
Create a Dual Axis Chart in Tableau
To create a dual-axis chart in Tableau, we will use the Tableau superstore data. In that, we will analyze the sales and profit for each product category. In this, we will use the product category as a dimension, then Sales and Profit as measures.
After selecting the data source, click on the sheet tab and follow the steps below.
- Select the Subcategory and drag it to the Columns. After this, add Sales and Profit to the Rows shelf.
- On adding two measures in the Rows, we will have two bar charts. To create a dual-axis chart, we need to overlap these bar charts. To do this, click on the Profit measure in the rows and select ‘Dual Axis‘.
- Go to the Marks section and select the chart type for Sales marks as Bar, and for Profit marks as Line.
- Now, you will see the chart in a dual-axis format, where the sales data is displayed in bars and the Profit data in a line format.
Now, to arrange the products in descending order of their profits, click on the sort button on the Profit axis.
Check out: Bullet Chart in Tableau
This will arrange the data according to the profit from most to least, irrespective of the sales made. For example, the Tables product made the fourth-highest sale but incurred the most loss, so it will be listed last.
- To show how much profit or loss the specific product category made, drag the Profit to the Label in the Profit Marks section.
This way, we can analyse the profit of products and their sales using the dual-axis bar chart in Tableau.
Check out: Gantt Chart in Tableau
I hope the steps we performed helped you understand how to create a dual-axis chart in Tableau and why it’s useful. In the example above, by comparing sales and profit together, it is easy to identify which products are profitable and which ones incur losses.
You may like to read:
- Waterfall Chart in Tableau
- Stacked Bar Chart in Tableau
- Donut Chart in Tableau
- Box and Whisker Plot in Tableau
I am Bijay Kumar, the founder of SalesforceFAQs.com. Having over 10 years of experience working in salesforce technologies for clients across the world (Canada, Australia, United States, United Kingdom, New Zealand, etc.). I am a certified salesforce administrator and expert with experience in developing salesforce applications and projects. My goal is to make it easy for people to learn and use salesforce technologies by providing simple and easy-to-understand solutions. Check out the complete profile on About us.
