Analysis Methods and Evidence-based Decision-making using Microsoft Excel

Analysis Methods and Evidence-based Decision-making using Microsoft Excel

This comprehensive five-day training course is designed to transform participants into skilled data analysts, capable of using Microsoft Excel to drive evidence-based decision-making. The program goes beyond basic spreadsheet functions, focusing on powerful analytical techniques and best practices for data management and interpretation. Participants will learn how to clean, analyze, and visualize data effectively, turning raw information into actionable insights that can be used to solve real-world business problems and support strategic planning.

The course will cover a wide array of topics, starting with foundational data analysis principles and progressing to advanced techniques. We will explore methods for data cleaning and preparation, perform descriptive and exploratory analysis, and master data visualization for compelling reports. Key areas include the use of advanced Excel functions, PivotTables for data aggregation, and powerful tools for "what-if" analysis. The course will culminate in applying statistical methods like regression and building a robust framework for making decisions supported by solid data.


Who Should Attend the Training

·       Business analysts and managers

·       Financial professionals

·       Project managers

·       Marketing and sales professionals

·       Researchers and students

·       Anyone who uses data to make decisions


Objectives of the Training

·       Master essential and advanced Excel functions for data analysis.

·       Develop skills in data cleaning and preparing datasets for analysis.

·       Perform descriptive and statistical analysis to uncover trends and patterns.

·       Create professional and compelling data visualizations and dashboards.

·       Use "what-if" analysis and statistical methods to forecast outcomes and model scenarios.

·       Build a structured approach for using data to support and justify business decisions.


Personal Benefits

·       Significantly enhance your data analysis and problem-solving skills.

·       Increase your efficiency in handling large datasets.

·       Boost your career prospects by becoming a data-proficient professional.

·       Gain the confidence to present data-driven recommendations.


Organizational Benefits

·       Improve the quality and speed of business decision-making.

·       Foster a data-driven culture within the organization.

·       Increase productivity by automating complex data tasks.

·       Reduce business risk by making decisions based on solid evidence.


Training Methodology

·       Hands-on exercises and practical labs

·       Interactive lectures and demonstrations

·       Case study analysis and group discussions

·       Problem-solving challenges

·       One-on-one expert feedback


Trainer Experience

Our trainers are certified Microsoft Excel experts and seasoned data professionals with extensive experience in various industries. They have a proven track record of helping individuals and organizations leverage data to achieve their goals. Their teaching style is highly practical, focusing on real-world applications and empowering participants to apply their new skills immediately.


Quality Statement

We are committed to delivering a high-impact training experience that exceeds expectations. Our course content is designed to be highly relevant and practical, ensuring participants gain tangible skills they can use immediately. We provide a supportive and interactive learning environment, and our expert trainers are dedicated to helping every participant succeed.


Tailor-made courses

We offer customized training solutions to address your organization's specific data analysis needs. We can adapt the course content, duration, and focus to align with your industry, tools, and strategic objectives, ensuring the training delivers maximum value.


 

Course Duration: 5 days

Training fee: USD 1500

Module 1: Foundations of Data Analysis in Excel

·       Understanding the data analysis process

·       Essential keyboard shortcuts for efficiency

·       Data types and cell formatting best practices

·       Using named ranges to simplify formulas

·       Practical session: Navigating a large dataset and applying basic data management techniques


Module 2: Data Cleaning, Preparation, and Transformation

·       Removing duplicates and managing blank cells

·       Using Text to Columns and Flash Fill

·       Combining data with functions like CONCAT and TEXTJOIN

·       Handling errors and inconsistencies in datasets

·       Practical session: Cleaning and standardizing a raw dataset for analysis


Module 3: Descriptive Statistics and Exploratory Data Analysis

·       Calculating measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode)

·       Computing measures of dispersion (variance, standard deviation, range)

·       Using the Analysis ToolPak for statistical summaries

·       Identifying outliers and anomalies in data

·       Practical session: Generating descriptive statistics for a sales dataset and interpreting the results


Module 4: Data Visualization for Insightful Reporting

·       Choosing the right chart type for your data

·       Creating dynamic charts and graphs

·       Using conditional formatting for visual alerts

·       Building simple, interactive dashboards

·       Practical session: Designing a sales performance dashboard using various chart types and conditional formatting


Module 5: Advanced Formulas and Logical Functions

·       Mastering VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP and their limitations

·       Introduction to INDEX and MATCH for more flexible lookups

·       Using IF, IFS, and nested logical functions

·       Combining functions for powerful data manipulation (e.g., SUMIFS, COUNTIFS)

·       Practical session: Solving a data retrieval challenge using INDEX and MATCH


Module 6: PivotTables and PivotCharts for Aggregation

·       Creating a PivotTable from a raw dataset

·       Summarizing data by different fields and functions

·       Filtering, sorting, and grouping data within a PivotTable

·       Generating PivotCharts to visualize aggregated data

·       Practical session: Building a dynamic report to analyze customer data by region and product category


Module 7: What-If Analysis and Scenario Planning

·       Introduction to Goal Seek and its applications

·       Using the Scenario Manager to compare different scenarios

·       Working with Data Tables to analyze multiple variables

·       Solving complex problems with Solver

·       Practical session: Using Solver to optimize a budget based on multiple constraints


Module 8: Regression Analysis and Forecasting

·       Introduction to linear regression and its purpose

·       Running a regression analysis using the Analysis ToolPak

·       Interpreting regression output and key metrics (R-squared, p-value)

·       Creating a simple forecast using historical data

·       Practical session: Performing a regression analysis to determine the relationship between advertising spend and sales revenue


Module 9: Introduction to Power Query and Power Pivot

·       Understanding the purpose of Power Query for data cleaning

·       Automating data import and transformation processes

·       Introduction to the Data Model and relationships in Power Pivot

·       Writing basic DAX formulas

·       Practical session: Consolidating data from multiple sources using Power Query and building a data model in Power Pivot


Module 10: Building an Evidence-based Decision-making Framework

·       Defining a business problem and identifying key questions

·       Structuring an analysis plan and gathering relevant data

·       Presenting findings and recommendations effectively

·       Avoiding common pitfalls and cognitive biases in decision-making

·       Practical session: Working on a capstone project to analyze a business problem, present findings, and make a data-driven recommendation

 

 

Requirements:

·       Participants should be reasonably proficient in English.

·       Applicants must live up to Armstrong Global Institute admission criteria.

Terms and Conditions

1. Discounts: Organizations sponsoring Four Participants will have the 5th attend Free

2. What is catered for by the Course Fees: Fees cater for all requirements for the training – Learning materials, Lunches, Teas, Snacks and Certification. All participants will additionally cater for their travel and accommodation expenses, visa application, insurance, and other personal expenses.

3. Certificate Awarded: Participants are awarded Certificates of Participation at the end of the training.

4. The program content shown here is for guidance purposes only. Our continuous course improvement process may lead to changes in topics and course structure.

5. Approval of Course: Our Programs are NITA Approved. Participating organizations can therefore claim reimbursement on fees paid in accordance with NITA Rules.

Booking for Training

Simply send an email to the Training Officer on training@armstrongglobalinstitute.com and we will send you a registration form. We advise you to book early to avoid missing a seat to this training.

Or call us on +254720272325 / +254725012095 / +254724452588

Payment Options

We provide 3 payment options, choose one for your convenience, and kindly make payments at least 5 days before the Training start date to reserve your seat:

1. Groups of 5 People and Above – Cheque Payments to: Armstrong Global Training & Development Center Limited should be paid in advance, 5 days to the training.

2. Invoice: We can send a bill directly to you or your company.

3. Deposit directly into Bank Account (Account details provided upon request)

Cancellation Policy

1. Payment for all courses includes a registration fee, which is non-refundable, and equals 15% of the total sum of the course fee.

2. Participants may cancel attendance 14 days or more prior to the training commencement date.

3. No refunds will be made 14 days or less before the training commencement date. However, participants who are unable to attend may opt to attend a similar training course at a later date or send a substitute participant provided the participation criteria have been met.

Tailor Made Courses

This training course can also be customized for your institution upon request for a minimum of 5 participants. You can have it conducted at our Training Centre or at a convenient location. For further inquiries, please contact us on Tel: +254720272325 / +254725012095 / +254724452588 or Email training@armstrongglobalinstitute.com

Accommodation and Airport Transfer

Accommodation and Airport Transfer is arranged upon request and at extra cost. For reservations contact the Training Officer on Email: training@armstrongglobalinstitute.com or on Tel: +254720272325 / +254725012095 / +254724452588

 

Instructor-led Training Schedule

Course Dates Venue Fees Enroll
Dec 01 - Dec 05 2025 Zoom $1,300
Nov 10 - Nov 14 2025 Nairobi $1,500
Jan 12 - Jan 16 2026 Mombasa $1,500
Feb 16 - Feb 20 2026 Kisumu $1,500
Nov 17 - Nov 21 2025 Naivasha $1,500
Nov 10 - Nov 14 2025 Nanyuki $1,500
Nov 24 - Nov 28 2025 Nakuru $1,500
Armstrong Global Institute

Armstrong Global Institute
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