Stoplight system pulling information from multiple columns - how to set predence

Question

I have created a stoplight system using the instruction below:

http://eimagine.com/creating-a-stoplight-color-coded-status-in-a-sharepoint-2013-list/

But want to expand it by pulling in information from other columns. For example, the stoplight now looks at the calibration status of a piece of equipment. I also have a column for third party inspection. Can someone advise the best way to do this?

Answer 1

I have used the technique recommended by Lukáš - and it works, but if you want OOB functionality use the Numeric Calculated Column Trick.

1. Add a list (or content type) a list or site column named "Color_Column" Type: Text.
2. Create a list column named "Status_Column". Type: Calculated Column. Output: Numeric.
3. the evaluation of calculated columns in SharePoint is outputted as HTML. if you google it, you can see it is actively being used by admins and users: link
4. Add the following formula to the [Status_Column]'s Calculated Column formula or something similar to it:

="<div style='padding:10px;background-color:"&[Color_Column]&" width:100%;height:100%; display:block;text-align:center;'>"{YOUR VALUE HERE}" </div>"

Basically, if you are somewhat familiar with CSS and how to style output inline, you can create everything that Lukáš suggests, but out of the box.

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EDIT

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The above answer only applies to SharePoint ≤ 2013 on-prem.
SharePoint online will require Client side rendering, a page-level scripted solution (if appropriate), a third party solution, or some use of PerformancePoint (ugh). I currently have a migration project that I need to convert prior to migration because this method is no longer supported in SPO. Will update this post when I get to that particular migration project later this quarter!

Answer 2

I would recommend different technique - Client Side Rendering (samples). Using this technique the column will work in views and even in display form out-of-the-box. You don't have to add any webparts whatsoever.

Because this Client Side Rendering as the name suggests runs in a browser all columns used in the script (for conditions, calculations...) needs to be displayed in the view/form.