Excel dashboards are useful for project management when done right- but how do you know if it’s comprehensive and fully effective? Are there actually things that you are missing out? Are there things that are redundant and can be omitted? Here are 5 components an excel dashboard should possess:
1. Graphics
Graphics are far more straightforward to decipher compared to simply data. Don’t be afraid to convert data into charts, make use of shapes and symbols to create something comprehensive at first glance. A good excel dashboard should be engaging and interactive so if you can achieve that much, you will be encouraging users to continue exploration and their attempt to decipher information.
2. Charts
What are you tracking with your Excel dashboard? Are you clear on what kind of charts are best effective representation for your file? Charts aren’t just for visuals alone- they can actually become a gauge for whether or not your project is progressing smoothly or if it is headed in the right direction. They can also help you compare your projected as compared to your actual results. Every good dashboard should have at least a few charts to help track progress.
3. Analytics
Analytics like Google Analytics or SEO management is good for your excel dashboard as well. They help track digital marketing results so you don’t have to manually use other programs to do so since it can be done here on the working file itself. A good dashboard would be missing in efficiency without add ins like this, especially when your operations rely heavily on online customer engagement.
4. Project management
It is recommended that your Excel dashboard comes with project management tools, apps or add ins. Especially when you are using excel for your business since it can be merged with business functions and tools. This way, you can be able to keep track of things effectively and come up with alternative plans. You will also have reports for your superiors or investors and the data to back up your proposals.
5. Add Ins
Add ins can potentially make everyday functions of your dashboard easier so why not give some of them a try? Search up some popular add ins and combine them with your excel. Make note of the difference in your performance with these add ins.
These are the five components of an Excel dashboard that ensures everything can be ran smoothly. Are there any that you have missed out? If so, please continue trying so that you will be able to attain results in a quicker period of time.
