Bar Graph/Gantt Chart

Hi everyone,

I'm wondering if anyone can offer some insight into a conundrum I am having with Excel. I wish to create a bar graph/gantt chart, which displays months along the X axis, and each point in the Y axis represents a dataset.
The dataset represents stages, which I wish to colour code.

I've attached a very rough example, though I'm having trouble with the majority of it.

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Although there will be more sets of data, this serves as an example of what I am after. In order to do this one, I had to select each chunk and colour code them accordingly. However, the legend was incorrect.

From the example, I would like the X axis to represent months. From October 2010, to October 2012.
And each coloured block represents a stage (though I am after 5 stages/colours).

Not all data rows begin and end on the same month, however. Is it possible for me to create what I am after?

If you require any more details, please feel free to ask. And, thank you for taking the time to help.

Hi Bob,

you should use a stacked bar chart and make some of the series transparent.
Have a look at this sample with floating bars which is set up in a similar way:
http://www.pimpmychart.com/english/d...0559f8e1287701

Regards

Holger

Hi Holger,

Thank you for the link. It has been somewhat helpful, although I am still struggling.
How will I then alter the X axis to have set dates (month and year)? As well as having separate colour segments in one bar?

For example, I need 5 stages (colours), which apply to every bar, but occur at different times.
Is this possible?

Thanks.

Hi Bob,

Separate colour segments in one bar is not a problem with a stacked bar chart.
However automating their appearance over different times can be quite complex.
Maybe you should go for 'conditional formatting' rather than a chart.

Regards

Holger

Hi again,

I quickly put a sample together based on your requirements.
In the top section (row 4-6) you enter the stages that apply to the 3 categories for the different months.
Below you get your colour-coded chart. All done with conditional formatting.

Regards

Holger

The attachment...