SSRS Chart Scale Label Formatting

Label formatting refers to the customization of text labels on chart and gauge axes. Proper label formatting significantly enhances the clarity and aesthetic appeal of a chart, making it easier for viewers to understand the presented data. The control supports various label formatting options to accommodate different data types, such as numeric values, date/time values, and time span values. In addition to label formatting, the control provides various options to customize the label's appearance, including font, font style, color, size, and more.

• Include units when applicable. Display units (e.g., %, $, kg) directly on the label or on the axis title.
• Abbreviate large numbers. Use suffixes like K (thousands), M (millions), or B (billions) to simplify labels without losing meaning and avoid unnecessary numbers of zeros.
• Ensure font legibility. Use readable font sizes and styles, try using sans serif fonts, combined with appropriate font size.
• Avoid clutter and fixed axis steps. This limits the number of labels by using the automatic axis label generation of the chart to prevent crowding of the axis.
• Use localized formatting. Synchronize number formats, decimal separators, and date formats with the current culture (this is the default).
• Use a level of decimal precision that balances accuracy and readability. Avoid excessive decimals that confuse users.
• Use appropriate date/time formats based on the time scale (e.g., year-only for long ranges, full timestamps for short intervals) or simply let the scale decide.
• Use shorter date/time formats when space is limited.