Business Analysis

• Traditional Classroom: 2-day Duration
• Virtual Instructor-led: Four 3-hour sessions

This intensive two-day workshop builds the capabilities analysts need to accelerate beyond reporting toward solving business problems with data-driven insight. Participants will learn to frame problems effectively, identify underlying root causes, and use data analysis to inform sound, evidence-based decisions.

Using a practical 8-step problem-solving framework, participants will strengthen their analytical thinking, pattern recognition, and data storytelling skills — learning to connect analysis with strategic decision-making. Through realistic scenarios, Excel-based exercises, and a comprehensive case study, learners will apply each step of the framework from defining the problem through developing, evaluating, and presenting actionable solutions.

While Excel is used throughout for data exploration and visualization, the emphasis remains on structured thinking, analytical reasoning, and compelling communication of insights — helping analysts move from data interpretation to meaningful business impact.

This course is ideal for:

• Business professionals who analyze, interpret, and present data
• Analysts and senior analysts seeking to expand their influence through strategic, data-informed recommendations
• Managers or professionals responsible for decision support and business analysis

Learning Objectives

• Understand the importance of data in problem solving.
• Apply a systematic framework for solving problems using data.
• Define problems clearly before moving into analysis.
• Learn proven data planning and collection methods.
• Analyze data by identifying trends, patterns and testing assumptions.
• Create compelling stories and insights through data visualization.
• Identify and prioritize potential solutions using structured criteria.
• Make informed decisions and communicate findings effectively.
• Build continuous learning through feedback loops and reflection.

Course Outline

DAY 1: Foundation, Investigation, & Data Analysis

Module 1: Introduction to Data-Driven Problem Solving

• Importance of Data in Problem Solving and Decision Making
• Data Reporting vs. Data Insights
• Creative vs. Critical Thinking
• Overview of the 8-Step Problem-Solving Framework
• Exercise: “Beyond Surface Level Information”

Module 2: Defining the Problem

• Why Problem Definition Is Critical
• Characteristics of Effective Problem Statements
• Using Data to Clarify and Validate the Problem
• Exercise: Problem Statement Evaluation and Writing

Module 3: Investigate Root Causes

• Distinguishing Symptoms from Root Causes
• The Cause-and-Effect (Fishbone) Diagram to Understand Causes of the Problem
• The 5 Whys Method to Determine the Root Causes
• Exercise: Create a Fishbone Diagram Using Given Scenario

Module 4: Analyze the Problem (Part 1: Data Foundation)

• Translating Business Questions into Analytical Objectives
• Designing a Focused Analysis Approach
• Elements of a Data Collection Plan
• Fundamentals for Preparing the Data in Excel:
  • Data Cleaning and Formatting
  • Filters, Sorts, and Data Validation
  • Pivot Tables for Multi-Dimensional Exploration
  • Conditional Formatting for Pattern Detection
  • Calculated Fields and Essential Formulas
• Exercise: Brainstorm data needed based on the C&E Matrix from the Case Study
• Exercise: Clean and Prepare the Case Study Datasets for Analysis

Module 5: Analyze the Problem (Part 2: Data Visualization for Impact)

• The PGA Method (Practical, Graphical, Analytical)
• The Power of Visual Analysis
• Choosing the Right Visualization for your Message
• Chart Types and Their Purposes:
  • Run Charts, Bar/Column Charts, Histograms
  • Scatter Diagrams, Correlations, Pareto Charts
• Identify Patterns, Trends, and Root Cause Evidence
• Common Visualization Mistakes to Avoid
• Best Practices for Chart Design and Formatting
• Exercises: Practice Creating Each Chart Type in Excel

Day 1 Wrap-Up

• Review Key Insights from Today’s Analysis

Day 2

Module 6: Communicating Analytical Insights

• From Data to Story: Building a Compelling Narrative
• Structuring Effective Analytical Presentations
  • Knowing Your Audience
  • Designing Clear, Impactful Slides
• Handling Questions and Objections
• Exercise: Using the Case Study Data Sets, Create Data Visualizations and Summarize Insights

Module 7: From Insight to Solutions

• Using Data Insights to Guide Solution Development
• Creative Thinking Techniques for Solution Generation
• Identifying Stakeholders in Solution Selection
• Multiple Evaluation Methods:
  • Impact/Effort Matrix for Prioritization
  • Weighted Decision Matrix for Rigorous Evaluation
  • Cost-Benefit Considerations
• Defining and Weighting Evaluation Criteria
• Building Consensus Through Structured Analysis
• Exercise: Brainstorming Solutions Based on the Case Study Findings
• Exercise: Review Provided Case Study Decision Criteria Matrix and make recommendations to Improve It

Module 8: Implement, Evaluate & Learn

• Creating Actionable Implementation Plans
• Defining Success: KPIs and Metrics
• Monitoring and Measuring Results
• Continuous Improvement and Learning from Results
• Standardizing Successful Approaches
• Exercise: Develop Implementation Roadmap for Case Study Solution

Day 2 Wrap-up

• Exercise: Create Personal Action Plan
• Final Q&A
• Course Evaluation

BAV184 Course Code