Abstract: Embodiments automatically create an axis break in a bar chart or waterfall chart to promote data visualization. For a bar chart with positive bars, a maximum axis break point is determined relative to a lowest datapoint (D1) in the selected bar(s). A minimum axis break point is found from a value (D2) outside selection which is between D1 and zero, and which is closest to D1. The inclusion of padding on either side of a break prevents the break from lying at zero or a bar end. A different procedure creates axis breaks in a waterfall chart. Certain embodiments store only bar selection metadata with a chart. The location of the axis break then is recalculated each time the chart is rendered (e.g., with updated data). Embodiments may retain axis break data for reference in various stages of a user interaction (e.g., filtering/expanding, drilling-down/up, etc.) with a rendered chart.

Abstract: Embodiments automatically create an axis break in a bar chart or waterfall chart to promote data visualization. For a bar chart with positive bars, a maximum axis break point is determined relative to a lowest datapoint (D1) in the selected bar(s). A minimum axis break point is found from a value (D2) outside selection which is between Dl and zero, and which is closest to D1. The inclusion of padding on either side of a break prevents the break from lying at zero or a bar end. A different procedure creates axis breaks in a waterfall chart. Certain embodiments store only bar selection metadata with a chart. The location of the axis break then is recalculated each time the chart is rendered (e.g., with updated data). Embodiments may retain axis break data for reference in various stages of a user interaction (e.g., filtering/expanding, drilling-down/up, etc.) with a rendered chart.

Abstract: A computer-based system and method of creating and performing a soundtrack to accompany an electronic slide show presentation is disclosed. The method includes receiving input from a slide presentation author, the input specifying when the soundtrack is to begin, end, or change. The input also includes a specification of elements that control the soundtrack content. During an electronic slide show, when each slide (212) is displayed, the soundtrack specifications associated with the displayed slide (212) are retrieved. Based on the specifications, a music engine (230) is invoked with commands to control the composition and performance of a soundtrack that accompanies the currently displayed slide. The method also includes receiving specifications of motifs that are triggered to accompany predetermined events occurring during the electronic slide show.