Advanced Excel and Dashboards training

Advanced Excel and Dashboards

Master Data Analysis, Automation and Interactive Dashboard Creation

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Platform:
Online
In-class
Revised and Updated: 29 September 2026
Date Venue Duration
12 - 13 November 2026 Sandton, Gauteng 2 Days

Course Introduction

This comprehensive 3-day Advanced Excel and Dashboards training programme 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 course also integrates discussions on current issues affecting Excel and dashboards, such as data security, AI-powered automation using tools like Microsoft Copilot, and cloud-based Excel collaboration. 

Course Objectives

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 Visualisations: 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. 

Who should attend?

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

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.

Training Outline

Day 1 — 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 customising PivotTables for deep insights
  • Interactive Pivot Charts for data exploration
  • Slicers and Timelines for advanced filtering
  • Case Study: Using PivotTables for sales trend analysis.

Day 2 — Module 2: Data Analysis, Automation, and Visualisation
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: Visualising 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, including Microsoft Copilot, and its growing 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.

Day 3 — 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 visualisation
  • 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 and Dashboard Presentation
  • Participants build a comprehensive dashboard incorporating all techniques learned
  • Presentation and feedback session
  • Best practices for sharing dashboards as interactive reports
  • Practical Exercise: Final project build and presentation, followed by course wrap-up and individual feedback.

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FAQs – Advanced Excel and Dashboards

Master advanced Excel and dashboard skills covering data analysis, advanced formulas, PivotTables, visualisation, reporting, automation, and interactive business dashboards.

What is covered in the Advanced Excel and Dashboards training?
The course covers advanced Excel functions, Power Query, PivotTables, data analysis, statistical tools, automation with macros and VBA, advanced charting, and interactive dashboard development.
Who should attend the Advanced Excel and Dashboards course?
The training is designed for business analysts, operations managers, management accountants, financial analysts, project managers, IT professionals, auditors, researchers, sales managers, and data-driven decision-makers.
Does the course cover Power Query and advanced Excel formulas?
Yes. Participants learn to import and transform data using Power Query and work with advanced functions such as XLOOKUP, INDEX-MATCH, logical formulas, text functions, dynamic ranges, and formula auditing.
Does the Advanced Excel training cover PivotTables and data analysis?
Yes. The course covers PivotTables, Pivot Charts, slicers, timelines, descriptive statistics, correlation, regression analysis, Scenario Manager, and Goal Seek for business analysis and decision modelling.
Can I learn to create interactive Excel dashboards?
Yes. Participants learn dashboard design principles, KPI selection, interactive slicers, timelines, dropdowns, form controls, conditional formatting, dynamic charts, and connections to live data sources.
Does the course include macros, VBA and practical dashboard development?
Yes. The training introduces macro recording and editing, VBA automation, automated reporting, and practical dashboard development. Participants complete a final dashboard project and receive feedback on their presentation.

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