how to make dashboard bigger in sharepoint online

3 min read 19-01-2025

how to make dashboard bigger in sharepoint online

SharePoint Online dashboards are a powerful way to visualize data and track key performance indicators (KPIs). However, the default size of dashboards can sometimes feel cramped, especially when working with many web parts or detailed visualizations. This article will guide you through several methods to effectively enlarge your SharePoint Online dashboard for improved readability and usability.

Understanding SharePoint Dashboard Sizing

Before diving into the solutions, it's important to understand that there isn't a single "make it bigger" button. The approach depends on what you're trying to enlarge: the entire dashboard itself, individual web parts within the dashboard, or the browser window displaying the dashboard.

Methods to Increase SharePoint Online Dashboard Size

Here are several techniques to achieve a larger, more comfortable viewing experience for your SharePoint Online dashboard:

1. Adjusting Web Part Sizes

Often, the feeling of a cramped dashboard stems from individual web parts being too small. Most web parts offer the ability to resize them directly within the dashboard.

Drag and Drop Resizing: Hover your mouse over the edges of a web part until you see a resizing cursor (typically a double-headed arrow). Click and drag to adjust the web part's height and width. Experiment to find the optimal size for each web part. This is often the quickest and easiest solution.
Web Part Properties: Some web parts provide more granular control over size within their properties. Click on the web part's ellipsis (...) menu, select "Edit web part," and look for size-related settings. This can allow for precise dimension control, particularly useful for consistent sizing.

2. Zooming Your Browser

This is a simple but often overlooked solution. Most web browsers allow you to zoom in on the entire page, making everything, including the dashboard, appear larger.

Keyboard Shortcuts: Use Ctrl + + (Windows) or ⌘ + + (Mac) to zoom in. Ctrl + - (Windows) or ⌘ + - (Mac) to zoom out.
Browser Zoom Controls: Look for a zoom icon in your browser's toolbar (often represented by a magnifying glass). Click on it to increase or decrease the zoom level. Use the slider or percentage option for fine-grained control. Remember that this affects the entire page and might make text or other elements appear blurry or too large if zoomed excessively.

3. Adjusting the Browser Window Size

Increasing your browser window size directly increases the available space for your SharePoint dashboard. A larger browser window often naturally provides more room to work with.

Maximize the Window: Click the maximize button in your browser's window frame. This expands the browser to fill the entire screen.
Manual Resizing: Grab the edges or corners of your browser window and drag them to expand the window's size as needed.

4. Using Full-Screen Mode

Most browsers offer a full-screen mode, which eliminates browser toolbars and other distractions, giving your dashboard more screen real estate.

Keyboard Shortcut: Usually F11 is the keyboard shortcut to toggle full-screen mode.
Browser Menu: Locate and select the full-screen option in your browser's menu (usually within the "View" menu).

5. Optimizing Web Part Placement

Sometimes, the issue isn't the size of the dashboard itself, but how the web parts are arranged. Efficient placement can significantly improve the overall look and feel, allowing for a more spacious experience even without changing the size of individual components.

Removing Unnecessary Web Parts: Remove any web parts that don't add significant value or are redundant. This helps simplify the dashboard and creates more room.
Rearranging Web Parts: Experiment with different arrangements to find a layout that's both visually appealing and functional. Drag and drop web parts to different positions within the dashboard.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Fit

The best approach to making your SharePoint Online dashboard bigger is to experiment with these methods. Combine different techniques if necessary to achieve the optimal size and layout for your specific needs. Remember to prioritize readability and usability for a productive and efficient dashboard experience. Remember to save your changes after adjusting the sizes or positions of your web parts!