How to Create a Gauge in PowerPoint

We can create a simple gauge using the donut shape. First, insert a donut shape and another rectangle shape in the bottom half of the donut. Select the donut and then the rectangle and now you can apply the set operation subtract to remove the bottom part.

What are some of the benefits of using Gauges in presentations?

Editable gauges can be a visually appealing way to display data in presentations. They can represent metrics, progress, or other quantifiable information in an intuitive manner.

How Gauges can be used to represent data in presentations? Real-life Examples:

Gauges are instruments that measure and display the level or amount of something and are found in many real-life applications. Gauges often serve as metaphors to convey ideas or concepts in a way that’s more intuitive to understand.

Gauges in Vehicle Dashboards

In vehicle dashboards, gauges display aspects such as speed, fuel level, engine temperature, and RPM. This gives rise to metaphors like “running on empty,” suggesting someone might be out of resources or exhausted. In the world of industrial machinery, gauges monitor parameters like pressure, temperature, and flow rates. Here, saying someone is “under pressure” might invoke the imagery of a gauge nearing its danger zone. Thermometers, which measure temperature, have led to phrases like “heating up” or “cooling down” to indicate situations escalating or calming, respectively. You can learn how to make a thermometer in PowerPoint here.

Barometers to Measure Pressure and Weather Changes

Barometers are used to measure atmospheric pressure and predict weather changes, leading to phrases like the barometer of public opinion to gauge the general mood on an issue. In medical applications, sphygmomanometers measure blood pressure, and metaphorically, terms like “high-strung” or “relaxed” might relate to high or low blood pressure readings.

Gauges to measure level of stored liquids

Tanks and reservoirs use gauges to show the level of stored liquids, from which metaphors like “topping up” or “draining resources” might derive. Scuba diving equipment is equipped with gauges that show air supply, depth, and pressure, giving rise to terms like “diving deep” or “being out of your depth.” Cooking appliances, such as ovens and grills, might have temperature gauges, leading to expressions like “turning up the heat” when situations intensify.

Gauges to measure Key Performance Indicators and Metrics

In the business world, various metrics and KPIs are often represented as gauges to assess performance. The idea of moving the needle suggests making a significant change or impact. Lastly, sound equipment, like mixers, have VU meters or level gauges to indicate volume, leading to metaphors about “amplifying” messages or “turning down the volume” on issues.