Duration 2 days – 14 hrs
Overview
This course introduces participants to the principles and tools of data visualization and dashboard design. It focuses on transforming raw data into compelling, clear, and actionable visuals that support decision-making. Participants will explore visualization best practices, storytelling techniques, and hands-on tools (such as Excel, Power BI, or Tableau) to create interactive dashboards and reports.
Objectives
- Understand the fundamentals of data visualization and its role in business intelligence
- Apply design principles to create clear and meaningful visuals
- Select appropriate chart types for different data stories
- Create basic dashboards using popular tools (Excel, Power BI, or Tableau)
- Develop interactive reports for business users and stakeholders
- Communicate insights effectively using visual storytelling techniques
Audience
- Business analysts, data analysts, and report developers
- Marketing, finance, HR, and operations professionals
- Decision-makers who rely on visual reports
- Anyone new to data visualization or dashboards
Pre- requisites
- Basic understanding of data (spreadsheets, tables, etc.)
- Familiarity with Excel or similar tools is helpful but not required
- No prior experience in data visualization is needed
Course Content
Day 1: Principles of Effective Data Visualization
Introduction to Data Visualization
- Why data visualization matters
- From raw data to actionable insight
Types of Visuals and When to Use Them
- Comparison: bar, column, line charts
- Composition: pie, stacked bar
- Trend: line, area charts
- Distribution: histograms, box plots
- Relationship: scatter plots, bubble charts
Design Principles and Best Practices
- Visual hierarchy, color use, and simplicity
- Avoiding misleading visuals
- Accessibility and readability
Storytelling with Data
- Creating a narrative with charts
- Understanding your audience
- Framing insights with context
Hands-On Exercise:
- Redesigning poor visuals to improve clarity and insight
Day 2: Building Dashboards for Decision-Making
Introduction to Dashboards
- What makes a good dashboard?
- KPIs, filters, and interactivity
Tools Overview
- Dashboard building in Excel, Power BI, or Tableau
- Comparison of tool capabilities (brief demo)
Dashboard Layout and Design
- Grid-based layout
- Logical flow and user interaction
Interactive Elements
- Filters, slicers, drill-downs
- Linking visuals and applying dynamic views
Capstone Activity:
- Design and build a simple dashboard based on a business scenario
- Present insights to the group
