Enable X-axis Sorting by Fields Not Included in Chart Display (Including with Breakdown Dimensions)

What is the problem or goal the end user is trying to solve or accomplish?

Users want to sort the X-axis of a bar chart using a field (either a calculated column or native field) that is not directly included in the chart's visual display, especially in charts with multiple dimensions or breakdowns. This enables more control over categorical axis ordering, such as ranking statuses or categories based on business logic.

How are they solving it currently?

Currently, users can sometimes add the field (e.g., status_rank) to the query and sort using MAX(status_rank), which allows it to appear in the X-axis sort options—but only when a single dimension and single metric are used. This approach breaks down when a breakdown dimension is added. A workaround using a CASE statement to transform dimensions into metrics is possible, but this is highly manual, error-prone, and not scalable.

What is the recommended solution by the Customer?

Allow charts (especially bar charts with multiple dimensions or breakdowns) to sort the X-axis using fields that are included in the dataset query but not necessarily shown in the chart visualization. This could involve enabling hidden sort fields, similar to practices in other BI tools. Ideally, the feature would allow calculated columns or metrics to be used purely for ordering without requiring their visual inclusion.