Definition · data visualization
Bridge chart
Bridge chart is a chart decomposing the movement between two values into additive and subtractive steps. For bridge chart, the useful boundary is the driver, assumption, source data, owner, time period, scenario logic, and decision the model is meant to support.
Also known as waterfall chart, bridge analysis, walk chart
Why it matters
Understanding bridge chart matters because planning only improves decisions when assumptions, drivers, owners, and time periods are explicit enough to revisit when actuals arrive. Pluvo generates the bridge from the underlying drivers, so each step is computed and traceable instead of hand-built in a deck.
In practice
Planning example
Teams use bridge chart when a forecast, budget, or scenario needs an assumption that can be revisited. The finance team should know the driver, source data, owner, and period before using it in a model.
Pluvo example
Pluvo generates the bridge from the underlying drivers, so each step is computed and traceable instead of hand-built in a deck.
In practice, teams should define bridge chart with a clear source, owner, time period, and decision before they use it in reporting, planning, or operating reviews.
Understanding bridge chart matters because planning only improves decisions when assumptions, drivers, owners, and time periods are explicit enough to revisit when actuals arrive. Pluvo generates the bridge from the underlying drivers, so each step is computed and traceable instead of hand-built in a deck.
A strong workflow for bridge chart separates the definition from the action: first agree what the term means, then decide how it is measured, when it changes, and who is accountable for the next step.
Pluvo generates the bridge from the underlying drivers, so each step is computed and traceable instead of hand-built in a deck.
FAQ
What is a bridge chart?
Bridge chart is a chart decomposing the movement between two values into additive and subtractive steps. For bridge chart, the useful boundary is the driver, assumption, source data, owner, time period, scenario logic, and decision the model is meant to support.
What is the difference between a bridge and waterfall chart?
The boundary for bridge chart differs from related terms by scope, source data, time period, and decision use. In this glossary, it covers a chart decomposing the movement between two values into additive and subtractive steps, so teams should compare those boundaries before using it in reporting or planning.