What inspired this wish list request?
When working with XY graphs where the X‑axis represents time and the Y‑axis contains multiple continuous variables, it becomes difficult to simultaneously inspect the exact values of all Y variables at a specific moment in time. Currently, JMP does not offer an easy way to interactively place a vertical bar across the graph that shows the corresponding Y value for each plotted variable at a given X position.
This limitation makes it challenging to analyze process variables in parallel, especially when several graphs or multiple Y variables are displayed horizontally. Users must manually approximate values or inspect each line individually, which is time‑consuming and reduces analytical clarity.
What is the improvement you would like to see?
I would like an interactive vertical reference bar that can be inserted at any specific X‑axis value and automatically display the Y value of each plotted variable at that position.
This bar should:
- Be available in the toolbar or through a right‑click context menu.
- Move interactively along the X‑axis to allow users to evaluate how values evolve over time.
- Display the corresponding Y values directly on the graph or in a dedicated tooltip for every variable at that X location.
- Persist when copying or exporting the graph (e.g., for presentations), since it enhances interpretability.
This tool would behave similarly regardless of whether the user is viewing a single graph or multiple horizontally aligned graphs.
Why is this idea important?
The ability to inspect exact Y values at a chosen X point is extremely valuable for time‑based data analysis—especially with multiple process variables. A vertical reference bar would enable quick comparisons, precise readings, and clearer communication of results.
This feature would significantly improve usability, reduce manual effort, and make XY time‑based analysis more intuitive and insightful. It would also enhance the quality of exported graphics used in reports or presentations, helping others clearly understand the values at key moments in time.