Introduction

Microsoft Excel is a powerful analytical and reporting tool used across humanitarian programs, donor-funded projects, government institutions, and businesses. This Advanced Microsoft Excel Training equips participants with high-level skills to manage complex datasets, automate workflows, perform advanced analysis, and develop professional dashboards for decision-making.

The course is highly practical, combining real-world datasets, advanced functions, automation techniques, and reporting best practices to improve productivity and data-driven decision-making.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the training, participants will be able to:

1. Use advanced Excel formulas and functions confidently
2. Clean, manage, and analyze large datasets efficiently
3. Automate repetitive tasks using advanced tools and macros
4. Create dynamic dashboards and professional reports
5. Perform advanced data analysis and scenario modeling
6. Integrate Excel with other data sources and tools

Apply Excel for reporting in humanitarian, donor, and business contexts

Important Dates
Classroom Training Calendar

Online Training Calendar

Course Outline

Day 1: Advanced Data Management & Productivity Techniques

• Advanced Excel interface and productivity shortcuts
• Working with large datasets efficiently
• Data cleaning and transformation techniques
• Advanced sorting, filtering, and conditional formatting
• Data validation and error control
• Practical exercises using real-world datasets

Day 2: Advanced Formulas & Functions

• Logical functions (IF, IFS, AND, OR)
• Lookup and reference functions:
  • XLOOKUP, VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP
  • INDEX & MATCH
• Text, date, and time functions
• Mathematical and statistical functions
• Nested formulas and error handling
• Practical exercises on complex formulas

Day 3: Advanced Data Analysis Tools

• PivotTables and PivotCharts (advanced techniques)
• Power Query for data import and transformation
• What-If Analysis (Goal Seek, Scenarios, Data Tables)
• Advanced filtering and analysis techniques
• Introduction to Power Pivot and data models
• Practical exercises in data analysis

Day 4: Automation, Dashboards & Visualization

• Automating tasks using Excel tools
• Introduction to Macros and VBA (recording and editing macros)
• Designing interactive dashboards
• Advanced charts and visual storytelling
• Using slicers, timelines, and form controls
• Practical exercise: building a dynamic dashboard

Day 5: Advanced Reporting, Integration & Decision Support

• Financial, programmatic, and management reporting
• Advanced data analysis for decision-making
• Integrating Excel with other tools (CSV, databases, GIS, BI tools)
• Protecting workbooks and controlling access
• Best practices for professional Excel reporting
• Course review and action planning

Targeted Participants

This training is ideal for:

• Monitoring & Evaluation Officers
• Data and Information Management Officers
• Finance and Accounts Staff
• Project and Program Managers
• Government Analysts and Planners
• NGO and Humanitarian Professionals
• Business Analysts and Administrators

Key Benefits to Participants

• Improved efficiency and productivity
• Enhanced data analysis and reporting skills
• Reduced manual errors and repetitive tasks
• Professional-quality dashboards and reports
• Stronger data-driven decision-making