Excel offers several functionalities to create interactive charts that go beyond static visuals. Here's how you can create clickable elements and enable data exploration features:

Chart Elements and Formatting:

1. Chart Elements: Utilize chart elements like data labels, sparklines, and data bars to provide additional data points directly on the chart.
2. Conditional Formatting: Apply conditional formatting rules to highlight specific data points or chart elements based on certain conditions. This can add a layer of interactivity as the formatting changes based on user selection.

Hyperlinks and Actions:

1. Hyperlinks to Data: Add hyperlinks to data points within the chart. Clicking on these hyperlinks can direct users to relevant data sources or details within your spreadsheet.
2. Macro Buttons: Create macro buttons and assign them to chart elements. Clicking the button can trigger a macro that performs specific actions, like filtering data or displaying additional information sheets.

Sparklines and Chartsheets:

1. Sparklines: While not directly clickable, sparklines embedded within cells can provide a mini chart that offers a quick visual trend of the data point.
2. Chartsheets: Take advantage of chartsheets, a separate sheet dedicated to displaying your chart. This allows you to add more elements and customize the chart's appearance without cluttering your main data sheet.

Additional Features:

1. Chart Filters: Excel allows you to add slicers or filter buttons directly to the chart. Clicking these filters will interact with the chart, allowing users to explore the data by category or specific values.
2. 3D Charts and Rotation: While not inherently interactive, 3D charts and the ability to rotate them can provide users with different perspectives of the data.

Developing Interactivity:

While Excel doesn't support true dynamic programming within charts, you can combine these features with macros to create a more interactive experience. Macros can be programmed to respond to user clicks on chart elements and update other parts of the spreadsheet or chart itself.

Remember:

- Consider your audience's needs and the level of interactivity required.
- Strive for a balance between informative and visually appealing charts.
- Test your charts thoroughly to ensure all elements function as intended.

By incorporating these techniques, you can create informative and engaging charts that allow users to explore your data and gain deeper insights.