Storytelling with data
Best Practices in Data Visualization
Data storytelling is the practice of turning data into a clear, compelling narrative that helps people understand what the data means, why it matters, and what to do next. Good data storytelling doesn’t just report findings, it guides decision-making.
Good data storytelling doesn’t just report findings, it guides decision-making.
It answers questions like:
- What’s happening?
- Why is it happening?
- So what?
- Now what?
Conversely, poorly designed visualizations—whether in graphs, reports, charts, or presentations—can create confusion and, in the worst cases, lead to flawed business decisions.
This 1-day certificate course provides participants with the essential principles of data visualization and design, how to move beyond charts and tables to identify the insights that matter most, frame them in meaningful context, and communicate them effectively to different audiences.
Whether working with interactive Power BI reports, scripting in R or Python, creating charts in Excel, or delivering management presentations in PowerPoint, participants will gain the skills to design clear, impactful, and meaningful visualizations.
- The importance of narrative and storyboarding in the design process
- How to match visualizations to data for clearer insights
- Common charting mistakes and visualizations to avoid
- Fundamental design and layout principles, including Gestalt principles, pre-attentive attributes, and decluttering techniques for charts, dashboards, and reports
- The role of data visualization throughout the data analysis process
- Key principles of analytical design for effective communication
- An introduction to the grammar of graphics and structured approaches to visualization
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the importance of narrative and storyboarding in the design process
- Select appropriate visualizations for different types of data, applying best practices across common software and scripting tools
- Identify and avoid misleading or ineffective charts and visualizations
- Apply foundational design principles
- Critically assess the quality and effectiveness of data visualizations
- Effectively communicate data and insights
This course is designed for in-house training that fits your organization. Inquire today for rates and availability.
Interested in this Program?
Contact us for more information
Excellence Canada will be hosting a Live Online Training for the Storytelling with Data Certificate Course on March 6th & 9th, from 1:00–4:00 PM EST.
This two-day virtual session offers a convenient and engaging way to participate in the program from anywhere. Register Now!
Program
Location
Time
Fees
Storytelling with Data
Live Online
March 6 & 9 2026
1pm-4pm EST
$499+HST
Getting Started
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