Storytelling Data Through Graphics

Course Overview

Transform Your Data into Compelling Stories That Capture Attention and Drive Action.
This course equips participants with the skills to turn complex data into clear, persuasive visual stories. Learners will discover how to use graphics, charts, and visual techniques to convey insights effectively, ensuring the audience understands the key messages without being overwhelmed by raw data. Perfect for professionals who need to present data persuasively, this training emphasises clarity, engagement, and impact, providing tools that can be applied immediately in a business setting.

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Who Should Attend?

This course is suitable for:
• Professionals who regularly present data to managers, executives, colleagues, or teams
• Analysts, project managers, and business professionals who want to improve data-driven presentations
• Individuals with prior experience creating charts or graphs in Excel or PowerPoint
• Anyone who wants to make their data presentations more engaging, impactful, and persuasive

Required Knowledge:
• Familiarity with creating charts and graphs in Excel or PowerPoint
• Basic understanding of data management and presentation techniques
• No prior experience with advanced data visualisation techniques is required

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What You Will Learn

Foundations of Data Storytelling
• Understand why data communication differs from standard communication
• Identify the elements of a compelling data story
• Learn to communicate insights effectively using visuals
• Analyse your audience to tailor the story for managers, peers, or teams

Design Principles and Audience Engagement
• Understand the psychology of how people interpret graphics
• Create a narrative arc for your data presentation
• Apply ethical considerations in visualising and presenting data
• Use storytelling tips to maintain attention and clarity

Data Visualisation Techniques
• Select the right chart or graph for the data type and message
• Use colour strategically to enhance comprehension and emphasis
• Present text and graphics in a visually appealing and effective manner

Interactive Learning Activities
• Work with real data sets provided by the trainer to create visual stories
• Develop your own charts, graphs, and slides based on class exercises
• Share and discuss your work with other participants, fostering collaborative learning

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Exclusions:

This course does not cover:
• Advanced analytics, Power BI, or statistical modelling
• Programming or scripting for data visualisation (e.g., VBA, Python)
• Excel data modelling, PivotTables, or Power Query
• Highly technical charting tools outside standard Excel and PowerPoint

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Key Learning Outcomes

At the end of this training, you should be able to:
• Confidently design data-driven stories tailored to your audience
• Choose and apply appropriate charts and visuals for any dataset
• Use colour, text, and layout effectively to communicate key insights
• Apply ethical and psychological principles to enhance audience understanding
• Create engaging, interactive presentations that turn data into actionable insights

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Delivery Format

This is a classroom-based, interactive course focused on personal development and soft skills.

The instructor will facilitate learning through guided discussions, practical exercises, role-play, and group activities.

Participants will be encouraged to contribute their own experiences and practice skills in a supportive environment, receiving real-time feedback throughout the session.

Training Environment Includes:
• Comfortable classroom setting designed for interaction and engagement
• Course materials, handouts, and reference notes provided
• Opportunities for individual reflection, group work, and peer learning

Participants are not required to bring their own laptop.

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Recommended Progression Pathway

After completing this course, learners should consider:
• Microsoft Excel – Advanced Data Visualisation and Dashboards
• Power BI – Data Storytelling and Interactive Reporting
• Advanced Presentation Skills for Business Professionals

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Learner Support

Participants will have indefinite online access to all practice files and notes at https://www.dti.ie. Email support will also be offered on items covered during this course at support@dti.ie.