School of Computer Science - Technical Workshop Series
Power BI: Hands-on workshop (2 Session Series)
Presenter: Mehakpreet Kaur
Date: Thursday, July 24th and July 31st (MAC STUDENTS - MUST ATTEND BOTH FOR SEMINAR POINTS)
Time: 9:00 am
Location: Workshop Space, 4th Floor - 300 Ouellette Ave., School of Computer Science Advanced Computing Hub
Abstract:
This hands-on Power BI workshop is designed to explore data visualization and reporting using Microsoft Power BI. Over the course of two engaging sessions, participants will gain practical experience by building an interactive sales dashboard from scratch using real-world data. The workshop emphasizes learning by doing—starting from importing data to creating dynamic visuals, applying design principles, and creating final dashboards. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience in analytics, this workshop will equip you with the essential skills to effectively communicate insights through compelling dashboards.
Workshop Outline:
Session 1: Building the Sales Dashboard – From Raw Data to Visuals
- Introduction to Power BI and session objectives
- Importing and transforming sales data (Excel/CSV)
- Data cleaning and modeling: renaming fields, formatting types, creating calculated columns
- Creating core visuals: bar chart, line chart, KPI cards, pie chart, map
- Adding slicers and applying themes for a polished layout
Session 2: Interpreting and Presenting Insights with Design Best Practices
- Introduction to basic DAX concepts and common functions
- Interpreting visuals and presenting meaningful insights
- Design principles for effective dashboards (clarity, minimalism, avoiding “chart junk”)
- Demonstration: refining the dashboard with storytelling in mind
- Mini exercise: participants refine or critique a sample dashboard
- Q&A and wrap-up
Prerequisites:
•Basic knowledge of Excel and data concepts is helpful but not required.
•Participants should have Power BI Desktop pre-installed on their laptops (Power BI web app can also be used)
•The sample dataset will be provided before the session.
Biography:
Mehakpreet Kaur is a graduate student in the Master of Applied Computing program with a strong background in data analytics and data visualization. She has professional experience delivering workshops and training sessions on Power BI, Python, and Excel, and has worked with tools like Power BI and SQL. As a Data Analytics Trainer, she brings a practical, hands-on teaching style focused on real-world application and student engagement.