Data Visualization with Microsoft Power BI

Chapter 24. Radar and Aster Plot

For the practice in this chapter, use the practice dataset.

The radar chart allows you to compare values across multiple scales. These scales emanate from a central point, visually resembling a radar. A point is placed on each scale, and they are connected to form a polygon. Each category results in its own shape, and when overlaid, they create a pattern resembling a spider web; hence, it is often referred to as a spider chart.

Let’s consider an example. We want to compare the preferences of two consumer segments: Youth and Adults. In Figure 24-1, you can see five smartphone criteria on the radar axes: Battery, Camera, Display, Memory, and Brand. For the Youth segment, all criteria are important except for battery, while Adults prioritize battery and memory, with the other factors being less significant. Consequently, we observe distinctive patterns in preference profiles: for adults, it resembles a triangle with an emphasis on two criteria. For the youth, it is more irregular but forms a pentagon.

Figure 24-1. Radar chart comparing preferences in smartphone features for different age groups

The next example illustrates a competency profile of managers based on a survey. Eight key competencies were assessed on a 10-point scale. The survey was conducted from three perspectives for each employee: self-assessment, supervisor assessment, and subordinate ...