Excel Basics for Data Analytics Course

The primary challenge addressed by this initiative was the lack of essential digital skills among employees in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Extremadura. Despite the critical role of data analysis and digital tools in enhancing productivity and supporting decision-making, many workers lacked even basic proficiency in spreadsheet software such as Microsoft Excel.

To bridge this skills gap, this training aimed to bridge that gap by providing a structured and practical introduction to Excel. The program focused on fundamental skills, including data formatting , creating formulas, working with data tables, applying filters and visually representing data through graphs. By providing participants with these capabilities, the course sought to enhance their efficiency, improve their understanding of data management and enable them to contribute more effectively to their organisations' digital transformation processes.

By spearheading this initiative, FEVAL and the T4E EDIH project reaffirm their commitment to advancing the digital maturity of regional businesses. The program equips the workforce with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly data-driven business landscape, strengthening the region’s competitive edge.

To tackle the identified challenge, FEVAL, under the framework of T4E EDIH, designed and implemented a practical training program titled “Excel Basics for Data Analytics.” This program welcomed participants from various companies, focusing on equipping employees from SMEs in Extremadura with foundational skills essential for efficient data management and analysis.

The solution involved a series of online training sessions covering key areas of Excel usage, including:

• Basic introduction to the software to ensure participants gained familiarity with its interface and features.

• Data formatting and manipulation techniques to organise and clean datasets effectively.

• Creation and application of formulas and functions for streamlined calculations and data insights.

• Efficient handling of data tables with filtering and sorting techniques to manage large datasets.

• Visual representation of data through graphs and charts to enhance interpretability and communication.

The program was designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that individuals with little to no prior experience could quickly acquire practical skills applicable to their daily work tasks. Leveraging an online format, the course maximised participation and reduced logistical barriers, enabling greater reach and flexibility for participants.

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 providing this training free of charge, the initiative ensured equitable access for SMEs, particularly those with limited financial resources to invest in upskilling their workforce. The funding not only covered the development and delivery of the course but also reinforced the European Commission’s commitment to fostering digital maturity and economic growth.

The training “Excel Basics for Data Analytics ” has been 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.

Feedback from Attendees:

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

• Practicality of the exercises and their direct applicability to real-world tasks.

• Clear, step-by-step explanations, which made the content accessible even for those with limited prior experience.

• Flexibility of the online format, which allowed them to balance learning with work commitments.

Benefits for SMEs and Employees:

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

• Enhanced Productivity: Attendees now process and analyse data more efficiently, reducing time spent on repetitive tasks.

• Decision-Making: Improved data visualisation and reporting capabilities help businesses make better, data-driven decisions.

• 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.

• Basis for Digital Transformation: The course served as a stepping stone toward higher levels of digital maturity, empowering businesses to explore more advanced solutions in the future.

This initiative not only equipped participants with practical, immediately applicable skills but also significantly advanced the digital maturity of SMEs in the region. By empowering workers to manage data more effectively, optimise workflows, and enhance productivity, the training directly supported the digital transformation goals championed by the T4E EDIH project.