Managing Calculations
This page explains how to create, view, edit, and delete centralized calculations in xpna. These operations are essential for maintaining a library of reusable calculations across dashboards.
Viewing Calculations
All users can view the list of available calculations in their workspace:
- The calculations list is displayed on the left side of the Calculations page.
- Each calculation shows its name and the number of dashboards using it (in parentheses).
- Click on any calculation in the list to view its details in the right panel.
Filtering Calculations
To quickly find a specific calculation:
- Use the filter input at the top of the calculations list.
- Type any part of the calculation name to filter the list.
- The list updates in real-time as text is entered.
Refreshing the List
To ensure the calculations list is up to date:
- Click the refresh button at the top right of the calculations list.
- This retrieves the latest calculations from the server.
Creating a New Calculation
Note:
Only workspace administrators can create new calculations.
To create a new calculation:
- Click the plus (+) button at the top right of the calculations list.
- A new calculation is created with the default name "New Calculation".
- The calculation opens in edit mode in the right panel.
- Enter a descriptive name for the calculation.
- Build the calculation formula using the formula editor (see Building Calculation Formulas).
- Optionally, specify a number format (see Number Formatting).
- Click the save button to save the calculation.
Note:
Calculation names must be unique within the workspace.
Editing an Existing Calculation
Note:
Only workspace administrators can edit calculations.
To edit an existing calculation:
- Click on the calculation in the list to view it.
- Click the edit button in the calculation actions menu.
- Modify the calculation name, formula, or format as needed.
- Click the save button to save changes.
Important Considerations
When editing a calculation that is already in use:
- The calculation shows the number of dashboards using it.
- Changes to the calculation will affect all dashboards that use it.
- Consider the impact on existing dashboards before making changes.
Note:
Calculations that are in use cannot have their name changed. To rename a calculation that is in use, it must first be removed from all dashboards using it.
Deleting a Calculation
Note:
Only workspace administrators can delete calculations.
To delete a calculation:
- Click on the calculation in the list to view it.
- Click the delete button in the calculation actions menu.
- Confirm the deletion when prompted.
Note:
Calculations that are in use (shown by a dashboard count greater than zero) cannot be deleted. Remove the calculation from all dashboards before deleting it.
Saving Changes
After creating or editing a calculation:
- Click the save button to persist changes.
- A confirmation message is displayed upon successful save.
- The calculation is immediately available for use in dashboards.
If there are unsaved changes:
- The interface indicates that the calculation has unsaved changes.
- Navigating away or selecting another calculation prompts to save or discard changes.
Best Practices
- Use Descriptive Names - Give calculations clear, meaningful names that describe what they calculate (e.g., "Gross Margin %" instead of "Calc1").
- Document Complex Formulas - For complex calculations, consider adding comments or documentation outside the system to explain the business logic.
- Minimize Changes to In-Use Calculations - Be cautious when modifying calculations that are already used in multiple dashboards.
- Regular Review - Periodically review calculations to ensure they are still needed and accurate.