Advanced Excel for Data Analytics Course

The main challenge addressed by this advanced training was the need for more sophisticated digital skills among employees in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Extremadura. While many workers had basic knowledge of spreadsheet tools like Microsoft Excel, they lacked the advanced capabilities required to perform in-depth data analysis, automate processes, and make data-driven decisions effectively.

This skills gap limited their ability to harness the full potential of Excel for tasks such as creating dynamic dashboards, using advanced formulas, performing complex data analysis with Dynamic Tables and Dynamic Charts, and utilizing automation tools like macros. Without these advanced competencies, SMEs risked falling behind in a business environment increasingly shaped by data-driven strategies.

The Advanced Excel for Data Analytics course aimed to address this challenge by providing participants with practical, hands-on training over these advanced techniques. By empowering employees with the ability to analyze large datasets and automate repetitive tasks, the program sought to improve organizational efficiency, enhance decision-making, and drive innovation.

Through this initiative, FEVAL and the T4E EDIH project continue to strengthen the digital capabilities of the regional workforce, enabling SMEs in Extremadura to stay competitive and thrive in an increasingly complex digital economy.

To tackle the identified challenge, FEVAL, under the framework of the T4E EDIH project, developed and implemented a practical training program titled “Advanced Excel for Data Analytics ”. This course targeted employees from SMEs in Extremadura who had basic Excel knowledge but needed to develop more sophisticated capabilities for data analysis and process automation.

The solution was delivered through a series of online, hands-on training sessions designed to empower participants with advanced Excel skills. The key topics covered included:

• Advanced use of formulas and functions, including nested formulas, lookup functions, and conditional logic.

• Training on Dynamic Tables and Dynamic Charts to analyze large datasets.

• Data validation techniques to ensure accuracy and consistency in data entry and management.

• Creation of dashboards and custom charts for effective data visualization.

• Introduction to macros and automation tools to streamline repetitive tasks and improve productivity.

The program was specifically tailored to SMEs, balancing technical depth with practical applicability. Real-world examples and case studies were provided to ensure participants could immediately apply their learning to their daily roles. The online format allowed greater flexibility and accessibility, overcoming geographic and logistical challenges for participants across Extremadura.

This solution was fully financed by the European Commission as part of the T4E EDIH project, which aims to support the digital transformation of SMEs across Europe. This public investment is justified by the need to address a critical skills gap that hinders the competitiveness and innovation capacity of regional businesses.

By offering this training free of charge, FEVAL ensured that all SMEs, regardless of their financial resources, could benefit from the program, paving the way for increased efficiency, innovation, and data-driven decision-making.

The training “Advanced Excel for Data Analytics ” was successfully delivered to employees from several SMEs in Extremadura, as part of the T4E EDIH project.

Results Achieved:

This training was given to employees of SMEs in general, so that workers from a wide variety of companies and belonging to different sectors (such as food, agriculture, freelance, etc.) took part in it. More specifically, staff from 20 different companies took part in this course with employees eager to enhance their proficiency in data analysis and process automation..

Feedback from Attendees:

Participants highlighted the following aspects as key strengths of the course:

• The depth of the content, which allowed them to broaden their knowledge and tackle more complex data analysis tasks.

• The real-world applications of the training, including the use of advanced formulas, dynamic tables and macros.

• The flexibility of the online training, which allowed them to integrate professional development into their busy schedules.

Benefits for SMEs and Employees:

The training delivered multiple benefits, both for individual employees and their organisations:

• Improved Efficiency: Workers reported reduced time spent on repetitive tasks thanks to automation tools such as macros, allowing them to focus on more strategic activities.

• Workforce Empowerment: Employees gained confidence in handling large datasets, creating interactive reports, and implementing efficient workflows.

• Digital Skills Development: Employees became more confident in using digital tools, which supports broader technology adoption within their organisations.

• Cost Savings: By leveraging a publicly funded program, SMEs were able to upskill their workforce without financial strain.

• Progress Towards Digital Maturity: This course paved the way for deeper integration of digital tools, positioning SMEs to explore more complex digital solutions.

This initiative was an important step forward in the digital transformation journey of the participating SMEs. Providing employees with advanced Excel skills contributed to increasing productivity, improving the effectiveness of data-driven strategies and increasing the competitiveness of regional companies, strengthening the mission of the T4E EDIH project to foster digital innovation.