Economic analysis in today’s data-driven world requires professionals to master advanced tools that can transform raw data into powerful insights. Excel, Power BI, and Tableau stand out as essential platforms that enable economists, analysts, and decision-makers to collect, process, visualize, and present complex data with clarity and accuracy. This training course provides participants with practical, hands-on skills to leverage these tools for advanced reporting, forecasting, and visualization to support evidence-based economic and financial decisions.

Participants will learn how to integrate and analyze large datasets, build interactive dashboards, and apply data modeling techniques to evaluate economic and financial indicators. The course combines real-world case studies with practical exercises to ensure participants can apply the knowledge directly to their professional work. By the end of the program, attendees will be fully equipped to harness the power of Excel, Power BI, and Tableau for advanced economic analysis, forecasting, and policy evaluation.

Duration: 10 Days

Target Audience

• Central bank economists and analysts
• Financial sector professionals
• Data scientists in economic research
• Policy analysts in government institutions
• Risk and compliance officers
• Business intelligence specialists
• University researchers and academics
• Statisticians in economic planning units
• IT professionals supporting economic systems
• Consultants in finance and development

Objectives

• Strengthen skills in advanced Excel for economic modeling
• Apply Power BI for dynamic economic dashboards
• Use Tableau for advanced visualization and reporting
• Integrate multiple datasets for analysis
• Automate reporting processes for efficiency
• Enhance forecasting and scenario analysis
• Improve data presentation for decision makers
• Apply BI tools to macroeconomic indicators
• Ensure data accuracy and consistency
• Build capacity for evidence-based policymaking

Course Modules

Module 1: Introduction to Economic Data Tools

• Importance of BI tools in economic analysis
• Comparative overview of Excel, Power BI, and Tableau
• Role in data-driven decision-making
• Applications in financial and economic institutions
• Key success factors in adoption

Module 2: Advanced Excel for Economic Analysis

• Complex formulas and functions
• Pivot tables and advanced filtering
• Data validation and error checking
• Economic modeling techniques in Excel
• Automation with macros

Module 3: Data Management in Excel

• Importing and cleaning economic datasets
• Using Power Query for transformations
• Linking multiple data sources
• Creating reusable economic templates
• Best practices for data accuracy

Module 4: Forecasting and Econometrics in Excel

• Regression analysis applications
• Time-series forecasting methods
• Scenario and sensitivity testing
• Solver and optimization techniques
• Practical case studies in forecasting

Module 5: Introduction to Power BI

• Power BI architecture and components
• Connecting to multiple data sources
• Data cleaning and transformation
• Building economic models in Power BI
• Case examples in financial reporting

Module 6: Power BI Data Modeling

• Creating data models and relationships
• Using DAX functions for analysis
• Hierarchies and calculated columns
• Building economic performance indicators
• Troubleshooting modeling issues

Module 7: Power BI Visualization

• Designing effective dashboards
• Interactive visuals and filters
• Economic KPI dashboards
• Drill-down and drill-through analysis
• Best practices in visualization design

Module 8: Power BI Reporting

• Publishing dashboards and reports
• Sharing reports securely
• Real-time reporting with Power BI
• Automating updates and refreshes
• Enhancing collaboration through BI

Module 9: Introduction to Tableau

• Tableau interface and workflow
• Data connectivity options
• Preparing economic datasets in Tableau
• Basic visualization types
• Building dashboards with Tableau

Module 10: Advanced Tableau Techniques

• Calculated fields and parameters
• Advanced charting techniques
• Statistical functions in Tableau
• Combining multiple datasets
• Customizing visuals for economic reports

Module 11: Tableau Dashboards and Stories

• Creating interactive dashboards
• Storytelling with economic data
• Designing executive reports
• Enhancing user experience in dashboards
• Real-world case studies

Module 12: Comparative Applications of BI Tools

• Choosing between Excel, Power BI, and Tableau
• Integrating outputs from multiple tools
• Strengths and limitations of each tool
• Workflow optimization using all three
• Examples from economic institutions

Module 13: Data Integration and Automation

• Combining large datasets across platforms
• Automating data collection processes
• Linking BI tools with economic databases
• APIs and live connections
• Ensuring consistency in reporting

Module 14: Visual Analytics for Economic Indicators

• Inflation, GDP, and interest rate dashboards
• Trade balance and fiscal indicators visualization
• Real-time monitoring dashboards
• Highlighting policy-relevant trends
• Communicating insights to stakeholders

Module 15: Case Studies in Economic Analysis

• Central bank applications of BI tools
• Policy analysis using BI platforms
• International best practices
• Lessons from financial institutions
• Peer-reviewed exercises

Module 16: Future Trends in BI for Economics

• AI and machine learning integration
• Cloud-based analytics solutions
• Mobile dashboards for decision makers
• Big data in economic analysis
• Preparing for next-generation BI

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.