If you're working with PivotTables and PivotCharts in Excel and want to display the value of a specific measure (like a calculated field or aggregate) in a text box or chart label, here are some clean and dynamic options:
Option 1: Use a Linked Cell
1. Select a cell outside the Pivot Table.
2. Use a formula like:
=GETPIVOTDATA("Sales", $A$3, "Region", "East")
Replace "Sales" with your measure name.
$A$3 is a cell inside your PivotTable.
Adjust filters/fields as needed.
3. Then link your text box to this cell:
Click the text box.
In the formula bar, type:
=Sheet!B1
Press Enter.
This keeps the value dynamic and clean.
Option 2: Use a Named Range (Optional Enhancement)
Define a Named Range pointing to your GETPIVOTDATA cell (e.g., TotalSales).
Then link your chart label or text element to =TotalSales.
Helps with clarity and reuse in larger dashboards.
Bonus Tip: Avoiding GETPIVOTDATA Clutter
If Excel is auto-inserting complex GETPIVOTDATA formulas you don’t want:
Go to File > Options > Formulas.
Uncheck "Use GETPIVOTDATA functions for PivotTable references"
Avoid:
Manually copying PivotTable values into text boxes (not dynamic).
VBA for this task unless automation is required—it's overkill for a simple value fetch.
Summary:
Use GETPIVOTDATA to dynamically pull the measure value and link it to a text box. It’s clean, updates with filters, and avoids manual effort.