In this one-day training, you will learn how to correctly read, interpret, and use data as a foundation for better decision-making. You will discover the basic principles of data analysis, learn how to critically evaluate visualizations, and understand how algorithms and machine learning work—all without needing a technical background. Through practical exercises and real-world examples, you will develop the skills to transform data into valuable insights and concrete actions, helping you contribute to a data-driven culture within your organization.

What you will learn

• The basic principles of data: definitions, qualitative vs. quantitative data, and data quality.
• Data-driven working: making decisions based on data analysis and monitoring results.
• Data visualization: reading, creating, and critically evaluating visualizations for accuracy.
• Critical thinking about data: recognizing biases, limitations, and misleading visualizations.
• Algorithms and machine learning: understanding how algorithms work and what AI can and cannot do.
• Building a data-driven culture: how to encourage data-driven working in teams and organizations.

Content (overview of the program)

Part 1 – Basic principles of data

• What is data, what are the different types, and why is data quality so important?

Part 2 – Data-driven working

• Making decisions based on data, monitoring KPIs, and developing a data-driven mindset.

Part 3 – Data visualization

• Understanding and creating effective visualizations: charts, dashboards, and tools.

Part 4 – Critical thinking about data and visualizations

• Recognizing misleading charts, identifying biases, and asking the right questions about data.

Part 5 – Algorithms and machine learning

• How do algorithms work, what does machine learning do, and what does this mean for your organization?

Part 6 – Data-driven culture & practical assignment

• Stimulating data initiatives in teams, developing your own cases, and creating a personal action plan.

• Professionals without a technical background who want to improve their data skills.
• Managers, policymakers, and advisors who want to make data-driven decisions.
• Teams and organizations that want to build a data-driven culture.
• Anyone who works with data daily but feels uncertain about how to interpret and use it.

Prerequisites

• No technical or statistical background required.
• Just curiosity about data and a desire to work with it more effectively.