Overview
This interactive, instructor-led course explores the principles and practical techniques behind effective data visualisation. Participants will learn how to present data clearly, avoid misinterpretation, and create visualisations that engage audiences and support informed decision-making. The session focuses on the balance between art and science in data storytelling—turning data into accessible insights through simplicity, trustworthiness, and visual clarity.
Learners will apply best practice principles through guided discussions, demonstrations, and reflective exercises designed to connect theory to their own workplace data. This course is the instructor-led version of QA’s self-paced digital module, providing a collaborative learning experience with real-time feedback from an expert facilitator.
Prerequisites
Participants should have:
- A foundational understanding of data handling and analysis.
- Experience using spreadsheet or visualisation tools such as Microsoft Excel, Tableau, or Power BI.
- Basic familiarity with data storytelling concepts and business reporting.
Target audience
This course is designed for:
- Professionals who regularly analyse or present data as part of their role.
- Business analysts, marketing professionals, and data practitioners looking to enhance visual communication skills.
- Anyone seeking to improve how they transform data insights into clear, engaging, and actionable visual narratives.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Explain the key principles of elegant, accessible, and trustworthy data visualisations.
- Identify the most appropriate chart or graph type based on dataset characteristics and audience needs.
- Recognise and avoid common visualisation pitfalls that lead to misleading insights.
- Select the most appropriate tools for different business scenarios based on cost, complexity, and interactivity needs.
- Apply best practice design techniques to improve readability and impact.
Course Outline
- Introduction to effective data visualisation
- Creating effective visualisations
- Building trust through accurate and ethical data visualisation
- Practical visualisation tools and technologies
Exams and assessments
There are no formal exams in this course. Learners will engage in reflective exercises, peer feedback discussions, and facilitator-led evaluations to reinforce learning outcomes and measure practical understanding.
Hands-on learning
This session includes:
- Collaborative exercises where participants review and refine example visualisations.
- Group reflection activities that connect course content to real business applications.
- Facilitator-led guidance and feedback to ensure participants can apply best practices effectively.
Frequently asked questions
How can I create an account on myQA.com?
There are a number of ways to create an account. If you are a self-funder, simply select the "Create account" option on the login page.
If you have been booked onto a course by your company, you will receive a confirmation email. From this email, select "Sign into myQA" and you will be taken to the "Create account" page. Complete all of the details and select "Create account".
If you have the booking number you can also go here and select the "I have a booking number" option. Enter the booking reference and your surname. If the details match, you will be taken to the "Create account" page from where you can enter your details and confirm your account.
Find more answers to frequently asked questions in our FAQs: Bookings & Cancellations page.
How do QA’s virtual classroom courses work?
Our virtual classroom courses allow you to access award-winning classroom training, without leaving your home or office. Our learning professionals are specially trained on how to interact with remote attendees and our remote labs ensure all participants can take part in hands-on exercises wherever they are.
We use the WebEx video conferencing platform by Cisco. Before you book, check that you meet the WebEx system requirements and run a test meeting to ensure the software is compatible with your firewall settings. If it doesn’t work, try adjusting your settings or contact your IT department about permitting the website.
How do QA’s online courses work?
QA online courses, also commonly known as distance learning courses or elearning courses, take the form of interactive software designed for individual learning, but you will also have access to full support from our subject-matter experts for the duration of your course.
Once you have purchased the Online course and have completed your registration, you will receive the necessary details to enable you to immediately access it through our e-learning platform and you can start to learn straight away, from any compatible device. Access to the online learning platform is valid for one year from the booking date.
All courses are built around case studies and presented in an engaging format, which includes storytelling elements, video, audio and humour. Every case study is supported by sample documents and a collection of Knowledge Nuggets that provide more in-depth detail on the wider processes.
When will I receive my joining instructions?
Joining instructions for QA courses are sent two weeks prior to the course start date, or immediately if the booking is confirmed within this timeframe. For course bookings made via QA but delivered by a third-party supplier, joining instructions are sent to attendees prior to the training course, but timescales vary depending on each supplier’s terms. Read more FAQs.
When will I receive my certificate?
Certificates of Achievement are issued at the end the course, either as a hard copy or via email. Read more here.