However, you have to remember that whatever tool you will be using depends on your purpose.įigure out the purpose of your dashboard first and see what tools (features and functions) you need to use to analyze the data. This may seem intimidating at first since you’re looking at a list of features and functions. It’s important since you have to make an analysis of your data to reflect your purpose.įor that, you will need to use different Excel features and functions such as: What do you want to highlight or show on your dashboard? One of the things you have to consider is the purpose of your dashboard. This makes your Excel file look clean and neat. This allows you to instantly update the table with new information and even filter or reformat them in a few clicks. Lastly, consider converting your raw data into an Excel table. Think of this as creating a skeleton map of your dashboard and identifying what KPI chart or visual to put and where. Who will use the Excel dashboard? Is the dashboard for yourself, manager, vendor, executive, or for an analyst? You need to structure the data and tailor the dashboard for the person who will be using the dashboard.Īfter that, you would also benefit from outlining your dashboard structure.

Including data that’s not important will only service to distract anyone who’s using the dashboard.

What key performance indicators or metrics should you track to fulfill the purpose of your dashboard? To make your dashboard more effective, you have to highlight only the data that are necessary.Is it to prove a point? Show the overall status of the operation? Or measure the performance of the business? What is your purpose in creating the dashboard? Clarify your reason for creating a dashboard.There are questions you have to ask yourself first such as… Before you proceed in making an Excel dashboard, you have to pause first and consider some things that will simplify your dashboard.

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