IBM: Data Visualization and Building Dashboards with Excel and Cognos course Syllabus

Overview: This course provides a practical, hands-on introduction to data visualization and dashboard creation using Microsoft Excel and IBM Cognos Analytics. Designed for beginners, it guides learners through transforming raw data into clear, interactive dashboards used in real-world business reporting. The curriculum spans approximately 8–12 weeks with a weekly commitment of 2–4 hours, combining foundational visualization principles with hands-on tool practice.

Module 1: Foundations of Data Visualization

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Understand the importance of data visualization in analytics and decision-making
• Learn how people perceive and interpret visual information
• Explore examples of effective versus misleading visualizations
• Identify core principles of visual storytelling

Module 2: Data Visualization with Microsoft Excel

Estimated time: 8 hours

• Create bar charts, line charts, and pie charts in Excel
• Build combination charts to compare multiple data series
• Apply formatting, labeling, and layout best practices
• Use Excel features to highlight trends, comparisons, and patterns

Module 3: Building Dashboards in Excel

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Combine multiple charts into a single dashboard
• Implement filtering and slicers for interactivity
• Design dashboard layouts for clarity and usability
• Tailor dashboards for executives and business stakeholders

Module 4: Data Visualization with IBM Cognos Analytics

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Learn the basics of IBM Cognos Analytics interface
• Build interactive, shareable dashboards using Cognos
• Connect data sources and create visual reports
• Understand how Cognos supports enterprise reporting at scale

Module 5: Best Practices in Dashboard Design

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Choose appropriate visualization types for different data
• Align dashboard design with business questions
• Apply best practices for clarity, accuracy, and impact

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Create an interactive Excel dashboard from sample business data
• Build a professional dashboard using IBM Cognos Analytics
• Submit both dashboards for peer review with a short reflection report

Prerequisites

• Familiarity with basic computer navigation
• Basic understanding of spreadsheets
• No prior experience with Cognos or advanced data visualization required

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Explain core principles of effective data visualization
• Transform raw data into meaningful charts using Excel
• Build interactive, professional dashboards in Excel
• Create enterprise-grade dashboards using IBM Cognos Analytics
• Apply best practices to deliver clear, impactful visual reports