24.8 Flattened PivotTables

From within Power Pivot we can also insert a different type of PivotTable that you may not be familiar with. This is called a Flattened PivotTable. To insert this type of PivotTable, return to Manage within Power Pivot, click the arrow underneath the PivotTable button, and select the last option, Flattened PivotTable.

Unlike regular PivotTables, when multiple fields are added to rows, they do not nest. Rather, each is saved to its own column on the same row, resulting in a flat structure—thus the name of this specific type of PivotTable. Add the individual fields Product Category, Product Sub Category, and Product Group to the Rows of the PivotTable and the Gross Profit to the Values.

Notice the flattened nature of the PivotTable. This type is especially useful for simple reports that you may want to distribute via PDF or hard copy.