---
id: en/dashboard-reporting/is-it-possible-to-change-the-scale-from-linear-to-logarithmic
title: "Is It Possible to Change the Scale From Linear to Logarithmic?"
category: dashboard-reporting
subcategory: build-customize-charts
language: en
updated_at: 2025-11-25
url: https://help.bidx.io/en/dashboard-reporting/is-it-possible-to-change-the-scale-from-linear-to-logarithmic/
---
# Is It Possible to Change the Scale From Linear to Logarithmic?

## Overview

The dashboard allows you to adjust the scaling of a column chart to fit your needs. You can switch the y-axis between a linear ("Linear") and a logarithmic ("Logarithmisch") scale. Using a logarithmic scale is helpful when your data values vary widely, so smaller values remain visible in the chart.

## Accessing the Function

You can access the scale settings in two ways:

- When adding a new element via the **Action Bar** using **Add Element**
- For existing charts via the chart menu: **Actions** > **Configure**

## Step-by-Step Guide

### Step 1: Create a new column chart or open an existing one

To create a new column chart, click **Add Element** in the **Action Bar**. Next, choose **Column Chart** as the element. Then you’ll see the option to select the scale type.

To change the scale of an existing chart, open the menu for your desired chart and select **Configure**.

### Step 2: Select the scale type

In the **Chart Creator**, look for the **Scale Column Chart** field. Open it to choose between **Linear** and **Logarithmic**.  
**Linear** is the default setting. It provides equal distance for equal value changes and is best when your data ranges are similar.  
**Logarithmic** compresses large numbers and makes differences in smaller values easier to see. This is especially helpful for data with wide value ranges or outliers.

**Note:** The **Scale Column Chart** option only appears for the **Column Chart** type. In agency setups, the dropdown can be disabled if no client is selected.

### Step 3: Set axes, values, and time period

Now choose how your chart should be set up:

- Use **Grouping (x-axis)** to define how your data is categorized.
- In the **Values (y-axis)** area, select which metrics you want to display.
- Optionally, set a **Date Range** and apply **Filters**.

Click **Load Data** to update the preview with your chosen settings. If no valid data is found, you’ll see the message "No data available!"

### Step 4: Save or update

When you’ve finished configuring your settings, click **Save** (for new charts) or **Update** (for existing charts). This will apply your selected scale permanently to the chart.

## Settings & Options

You’ll find global settings in the **Action Bar** under **Settings**. However, the linear/logarithmic scale selection is only available directly in the **Chart Creator** of each element – there’s no central toggle for all charts.

## Limitations & Special Notes

- **Chart type:** Scale selection is only available for column charts.
- **Data conditions:** Logarithmic scales work only with positive numbers. Zero or negative values can impact the display.
- **Permissions:** Without editing rights, you cannot add elements or change existing charts.
- **AMC Dashboards:** In these dashboards, adding new elements is always disabled.
- **Disabled dropdown:** In agency workflows, the Scale Column Chart dropdown remains disabled until a client is selected.

## Tips & Best Practices

- Use **Logarithmic** if a few extreme values dominate the view and smaller values are hard to spot.
- Stick to **Linear** if your data points are in a similar range.
- Use the **Load Data** preview before saving to make sure your scale selection achieves the readability you want.