Last month I published a first demo based on the SPELL mini-BI solution, showcasing the ability to build multi-level drill-down charts.

Today we are taking a look at the edit mode, thanks to an interactive demo. I think the best way to understand what this is about is to simply follow the link, read the instructions on the page, and start playing with the charts. Then you’re welcome to post feedback and questions here, and I’ll try my best to respond.

The previous demo used the Google GeoChart API. This time, the pie and column charts rely on the Dojo Toolkit. Dojo offers a wide range of charts, as well as multiple themes (I only picked a handful for the live demo). It also comes with plugins like animations and tooltips (also featured in the demo).

The Matrix View is homemade, and part of SPELL.

Here again, the data comes from grouped views (3 to choose from for the demo). This time I have only set up a two level drill-down, and clicking on a chart element will directly open the SharePoint list.

I made a recent addition to the demo that I find interesting, I call it “client side calculated column”. It allows you to enter directly in the form a formula, similar to what can be done with calculated columns in SharePoint lists, just much simpler (currently only simple operations). In the demo, the “Value” field plays the role of the calculated column (see the context help for an example).

I won’t describe this advanced customization in detail on my blog, but I’ll be happy to elaborate on specific points. If you think it could address your business needs, you’re welcome to subscribe to the SPELL interest list and you’ll receive in a couple weeks a sample to test on your own site. And if you are looking for a free, entry-level charting tool, remember to check out the SharePoint User Toolkit!