Advanced Excel and Dashboards

The programme

Programme overview

This comprehensive 3-day training program is designed for individuals with a solid understanding of Excel basics who want to advance their skills in data analysis, automation, and dashboard creation. The course focuses on advanced Excel functionalities and interactive dashboards to drive data-driven decision-making.

Participants will engage in a hands-on learning experience combining theory with practical applications, including case studies on real-world challenges in financial analysis, business intelligence, and operational performance monitoring. The Advanced Excel and Dashboards Training also integrates discussions on current issues affecting Excel and dashboards, such as data security, AI-powered automation, and cloud-based Excel collaboration.

Who should attend

Who is this programme for?

• Business Analysts
• Operations Managers
• Management Accountants
• Financial Analysts
• Project Managers
• IT Professionals
• Auditors
• Researchers
• Sales Managers
• Data Handlers & Decision-Makers

Learning outcomes

What you will learn

Upon completion of this Advanced Excel and Dashboards Training, participants will be able to:

• Master Advanced Excel Techniques: Perform complex data cleaning and transformation using advanced functions and Power Query.
• Conduct In-Depth Data Analysis: Extract meaningful insights with statistical functions, scenario analysis, and decision modelling.
• Harness the Power of Visualizations: Develop sophisticated charts and dashboards for clear data communication.
• Automate Tasks with Macros and VBA: Record and edit macros, introduce VBA coding to streamline processes, and enhance Excel capabilities.
• Craft Interactive Dashboards: Design effective dashboards with user-friendly interfaces and dynamic data updates.
• Integrate Multiple Data Sources: Combine data from databases, cloud sources, and web queries.
• Polish and Share Dashboards: Apply professional design principles and ensure accessibility across platforms.

Explore the programme

Detailed programme outline

Module 1: Data Cleaning, Preparation, and Advanced Functions

Session 1: Data Cleaning and Preparation

• Importing data from various sources (CSV, databases, APIs, cloud-based Excel)
• Data transformation with Power Query
• Handling duplicates, missing values, and inconsistencies
• Case Study: Data integrity challenges in financial reports

Session 2: Advanced Functions and Formulas

• Advanced text functions (TEXTJOIN, SUBSTITUTE, TRIM)
• Logical and array formulas (IF, AND, OR, XLOOKUP, INDEX-MATCH)
• Formula auditing and error tracking
• Case Study: Formula-based forecasting for business decisions

Session 3: PivotTables and Pivot Charts

• Creating and customizing PivotTables for deep insights
• Interactive Pivot Charts for data exploration
• Slicers and Timelines for advanced filtering
• Case Study: Using PivotTables for sales trend analysis

Module 2: Data Analysis, Automation, and Visualization

Session 4: Advanced Charting Techniques

• Custom chart formatting (axes, labels, annotations)
• Combination charts for multi-metric analysis
• Dynamic charting with named ranges and OFFSET
• Case Study: Visualizing key performance indicators (KPIs) for a retail chain

Session 5: Data Analysis with Excel Functions

• Using Data Analysis Tool Pak for statistical insights
• Descriptive statistics, correlation, regression analysis
• Scenario Manager and Goal Seek for decision modelling
• Current Issue Discussion: AI-assisted Excel analytics and its impact on traditional data analysis

Session 6: Introduction to Macros and VBA

• Recording and editing macros for repetitive tasks
• Basics of VBA scripting for automation
• Automating reports and dashboards using VBA
• Case Study: Automating financial reconciliation in a corporate environment

Module 3: Dashboard Development and Advanced Techniques

Session 7: Principles of Effective Dashboard Design

• Best practices in dashboard design for clarity and usability
• Identifying key metrics and audience needs
• Wireframing and structuring dashboards for impact
• Case Study: Common pitfalls in dashboard design and how to avoid them

Session 8: Building Interactive Dashboards

• Integrating slicers, timelines, and dropdowns for interactivity
• Form controls and conditional formatting for dynamic visualization
• Current Issue Discussion: The impact of cloud-based collaboration on Excel dashboards

Session 9: Advanced Dashboard Techniques

• Data validation and interactive forms
• Using GETPIVOTDATA for targeted analysis
• Connecting Excel to live data sources (APIs, SQL databases, cloud platforms)
• Case Study: Real-time executive dashboard for business performance tracking

Session 10: Final Project & Dashboard Presentation

• Participants build a comprehensive dashboard incorporating all techniques learned
• Presentation and feedback session
• Best practices for sharing dashboards as interactive reports

Learning approach

How you will learn

Our diverse instructional approaches ensure effective learning:

– Lectures & Presentations: Engage with expert-driven, stimulating content.– Course Material: Access well-crafted supporting resources.– Group Work: Collaborate on discussions and case studies for practical insights.– Workshops & Role-Play: Participate in immersive, scenario-based activities.– Practical Application: Focus on applying theoretical knowledge in real situations.– Post-Training Support: Receive extensive support after training for skill implementation.

Discuss your requirements

Dates, duration & arrangements

Contact Ratomac to confirm dates, duration, delivery format, entry requirements and any applicable assessment or certification before booking.