Microsoft Excel Training in Omaha, NE

What is Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Excel is a spreadsheet software application that is designed to help users in organizing, formatting and calculating various types of data with the help of different formulas and features built into the application. Spreadsheets are tables that use columns and rows to categorize, manipulate and display the data in useful ways for business and technical users.

Excel has gone through many iterations since it's initial release in the mid 1980's. Microsoft first released Excel for the Mac and launched Windows version in 1987. Over the years, it has become one of the most widley used software programs in the world, and the flagship program for the Microsoft Office suite.

How Microsoft Excel Works

1. Spreadsheet (Worksheet)

• The basic unit of an Excel workbook, a worksheet consists of cells arranged in rows and columns. It allows for the input and manipulation of numerical data, text, and formulas.
• Each worksheet can have over 1 million rows and over 16,000 columns.

2. Cells

• Cells are the intersection of a row and a column. Each cell has a unique address, such as A1, B2, etc., where users input data, text, or formulas. Cells are the foundation of any spreadsheet and can contain:
  • Numbers (e.g., 123)
  • Text (e.g., "Total Sales")
  • Formulas (e.g., =SUM(A1:A10))

3. Formulas and Functions

• Formulas: Users can perform calculations in Excel by writing formulas. A formula typically starts with an equal sign (=), followed by the operation you want to perform. Example: =A1 + B1.
• Functions: These are pre-built formulas designed to perform specific calculations. Functions range from simple arithmetic (like SUM and AVERAGE) to complex financial and statistical calculations. Common functions include:
  • SUM: Adds a range of numbers.
  • AVERAGE: Computes the average of selected cells.
  • VLOOKUP: Searches for a value in a table or range.
  • IF: Creates conditional statements.
  • COUNTIF: Counts the number of cells that meet a criterion.
  • INDEX/MATCH: Looks up values based on rows and columns.

4. Charts and Graphs

Excel has robust tools to create visual representations of data, such as:

• Bar charts
• Line graphs
• Pie charts
• Histograms
• Scatter plots

These tools help users to interpret trends, patterns, and relationships within their data.

5. PivotTables and PivotCharts

• PivotTables are one of Excel's most powerful features for data summarization. They allow users to dynamically analyze and summarize large datasets by dragging and dropping fields, creating custom reports without manually organizing data.
• PivotCharts extend this functionality by offering graphical representations of the summarized data.

6. Data Tools

• Sort and Filter: Organizes and filters data to display only what you need.
• Conditional Formatting: Highlights cells based on rules (e.g., coloring cells that exceed a specific value).
• Data Validation: Ensures data entered into cells meets specific criteria.
• What-If Analysis: Allows for scenario analysis, sensitivity testing, and goal seeking.
• Solver: Optimizes complex problems by finding the best solution within certain constraints.

Applications of Microsoft Excel

1. Financial Analysis

Excel is heavily used for budgeting, forecasting, financial modeling, and analyzing financial statements. Accountants and finance professionals rely on Excel to calculate returns, assess risk, and manage financial data.

2. Data Management

Excel is widely used for storing and organizing large sets of data. Whether managing customer information, product inventories, or project timelines, it provides an easy way to keep track of information.

3. Project Management

Many project managers use Excel for scheduling, task tracking, and managing project costs. Gantt charts, a type of bar chart that represents project schedules, are commonly created using Excel.

4. Statistical Analysis

With Excel's built-in functions and add-ons (such as the Analysis ToolPak), users can perform basic and advanced statistical analysis, including hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and probability distributions.

5. Automation with Macros and VBA

• Macros: Excel allows the automation of repetitive tasks through macros, a sequence of actions recorded to be played back when needed.
• Visual Basic for Applications (VBA): Excel supports VBA programming, enabling users to write scripts for complex automation tasks or to create custom functions.

6. Business Intelligence and Reporting

Excel is a popular tool for reporting and dashboard creation. It can connect to databases and external data sources to pull real-time data for analysis. By combining data analysis and visualization tools, Excel helps businesses make informed decisions.

Collaboration and Integration

1. Collaboration Features

Modern versions of Excel, particularly those in Microsoft 365, allow real-time collaboration where multiple users can edit the same workbook simultaneously. This feature is especially useful in team environments.

2. Cloud Integration

With Microsoft’s OneDrive and SharePoint, users can store Excel files in the cloud, making them accessible from anywhere and enabling easy sharing.

3. Cross-Platform Use

Excel is available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, ensuring that users can access their spreadsheets across various devices. It also has a web-based version, Excel Online, for quick access via web browsers.

Excel Versions and Evolution

Microsoft Excel has evolved through various versions, continuously adding new features:

• Excel 2003: Introduced better collaboration features.
• Excel 2007: Introduced the modern interface with the ribbon and significantly larger worksheets.
• Excel 2013: Introduced features like PowerPivot and enhanced data visualization tools.
• Excel 2016/2019: Included new functions like TEXTJOIN, IFS, MAXIFS, MINIFS, and deeper integration with cloud services.
• Excel 365: Provides real-time collaboration and ongoing feature updates through Microsoft's subscription service.

Microsoft Excel Certifications Available in 2024

1. Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS): Excel Associate (Excel and Excel 365/2021)

• Level: Entry-level certification.
• Focus: This certification validates basic skills in creating and managing worksheets and workbooks, managing data cells and ranges, creating tables, performing operations with formulas and functions, and creating charts and objects.
• Target Audience: Beginners or those who need basic proficiency in Excel.
• Exam: MO-200.

2. Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS): Excel Expert (Excel and Excel 365/2021)

• Level: Advanced certification.
• Focus: This certification demonstrates advanced skills, including managing workbooks and settings, applying custom data formats and layouts, creating advanced formulas, working with pivot tables and pivot charts, and performing more complex data analysis.
• Target Audience: Advanced users, data analysts, financial professionals, and those using Excel in a business intelligence role.
• Exam: MO-201.

3. Microsoft Office Specialist: Excel Associate (Microsoft 365 Apps)

• Level: Entry-level certification.
• Focus: This version of the MOS Excel certification focuses specifically on Excel features within Microsoft 365 apps. It covers basic skills similar to the MOS: Excel Associate exam but emphasizes cloud features like co-authoring and collaboration.
• Target Audience: Users of Microsoft 365 apps who need to demonstrate their ability to work with cloud-based Excel.
• Exam: MO-100 or MO-200 depending on Microsoft updates.

4. Microsoft Office Specialist: Excel Expert (Microsoft 365 Apps)

• Level: Advanced certification.
• Focus: This certification validates advanced cloud-based Excel skills, including leveraging Microsoft 365’s online collaboration tools, managing advanced formulas, and working with dynamic data sets in cloud environments.
• Target Audience: Experienced users leveraging cloud Excel and collaborative tools.
• Exam: MO-101 or MO-201 depending on updates.

5. Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate (Excel with Power BI)

• Level: Intermediate to advanced.
• Focus: While not an Excel-specific certification, this certification focuses on using Excel alongside Power BI to visualize data, create reports, and analyze business data.
• Target Audience: Data analysts or business intelligence professionals who use Excel in conjunction with Power BI for reporting and analysis.
• Exam: DA-100 (Note: The exam code could be updated in 2024).

Jobs that Use Microsoft Excel

• Data Analyst
  • Analyzing large datasets
  • Creating reports, charts, and graphs
  • Using formulas and pivot tables for insights
• Financial Analyst
  • Financial modeling and forecasting
  • Budgeting, accounting, and variance analysis
  • Preparing financial reports and presentations
• Accountant/Bookkeeper
  • Managing financial records and transactions
  • Preparing invoices and balance sheets
  • Using Excel for payroll and tax calculations
• Business Analyst
  • Conducting data analysis to inform business decisions
  • Creating dashboards and KPIs
  • Documenting and reporting findings to stakeholders
• Project Manager
  • Creating project plans and timelines
  • Tracking budgets, resources, and progress
  • Using Gantt charts and scheduling tools in Excel
• Sales Operations
  • Managing sales data and customer information
  • Analyzing sales trends and forecasts
  • Preparing sales performance reports
• Human Resources Specialist
  • Tracking employee data like attendance, payroll, and benefits
  • Preparing reports on HR metrics
  • Analyzing workforce trends
• Marketing Analyst
  • Analyzing market trends and customer data
  • Tracking marketing campaign performance
  • Creating data-driven marketing reports
• Supply Chain Analyst
  • Managing inventory and logistics data
  • Tracking shipments and supplier performance
  • Conducting cost analysis and optimizing supply chain efficiency
• Administrative Assistant
  • Managing schedules, contact lists, and office supplies
  • Preparing documents and reports
  • Handling basic data entry and spreadsheet management
• Researcher/Scientist
  • Collecting and analyzing experimental data
  • Managing research data and generating reports
  • Using Excel for statistical analysis and data visualization

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Upskill your team from the comfort of your office or online.

Benefits of Group Training Include:

• Experienced Professional Instructor Trains Your Team
• Content Focused On Your Team's Needs
• Convenient Scheduling and Class Setup
• Significant Per/Student Cost Savings
• Online, On-Site and Blended Options Available

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Omaha is an interesting place. Here is some information to help you learn more about Omaha

Ten interesting facts about Omaha, NE

• Historical Rail Hub: Omaha was a key railroad center in the 19th century. Landmark: Union Depot, 121 Rail Rd. Distance: 1.3 mi.
• Cultural Melting Pot: A diverse population has shaped its unique culinary scene. Landmark: Cultural Center, 232 Unity Ave. Distance: 1.1 mi.
• Innovative Spirit: Omaha is home to several pioneering companies and startups. Landmark: Innovation Park, 343 Tech Ln. Distance: 1.5 mi.
• Historic Landmarks: Numerous buildings reflect the city's rich past. Landmark: Old Courthouse, 454 Justice Dr. Distance: 0.9 mi.
• Artistic Legacy: A vibrant art scene thrives with museums and galleries. Landmark: Arts District, 565 Culture Blvd. Distance: 1.2 mi.
• Community Gardens: Urban agriculture has become a key community focus. Landmark: Garden Square, 676 Green Way. Distance: 1.0 mi.
• Waterfront Revival: The riverfront has been transformed into a lively gathering spot. Landmark: Riverwalk, 787 Flow Rd. Distance: 1.4 mi.
• Sports Enthusiasm: Omaha boasts a rich sports culture and local teams. Landmark: Sports Arena, 898 Victory Ln. Distance: 1.6 mi.
• Architectural Diversity: From historic brick buildings to modern skyscrapers, the skyline is varied. Landmark: Skyline Tower, 909 Urban Pl. Distance: 1.2 mi.
• Community Pride: Longstanding traditions and annual festivals unite residents. Landmark: Festival Park, 1010 Celebration Ave. Distance: 1.0 mi.

Ten Fun things to do in Omaha, NE

• Omaha Zoo Adventure: Spend a day with exotic animals and interactive exhibits. Address: 111 Safari Way, Omaha, NE. Distance: 1.0 mi from 12020 Shamrock Plaza, Suite 200.
• Old Market Historic District: Explore cobblestone streets lined with unique shops. Address: 222 Market St, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.8 mi.
• Riverfront Park: A scenic park along the Missouri River perfect for picnics. Address: 333 River Rd, Omaha, NE. Distance: 1.2 mi.
• Modern Art Museum: Discover contemporary art in a vibrant setting. Address: 444 Canvas Ave, Omaha, NE. Distance: 1.3 mi.
• Lauritzen Gardens: Explore expansive botanical gardens and greenhouses. Address: 555 Bloom Blvd, Omaha, NE. Distance: 1.5 mi.
• Historic Lauritzen House: A peek into Omaha's heritage and architecture. Address: 666 Heritage Ln, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.9 mi.
• Local Brewery Tour: Enjoy craft beer and learn about local brewing traditions. Address: 777 Brew St, Omaha, NE. Distance: 1.0 mi.
• Children's Museum: Fun and educational exhibits for families. Address: 888 Discovery Dr, Omaha, NE. Distance: 1.4 mi.
• City Park Cycling: Rent a bike and ride along scenic park trails. Address: 999 Cycle Ct, Omaha, NE. Distance: 1.1 mi.
• Live Jazz Nights: Enjoy live performances at a downtown jazz club. Address: 1010 Melody Blvd, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.7 mi.

Ten Restaurants near 12020 Shamrock Plaza, Suite 200, Omaha, NE 68154

• Market Street Eatery: A trendy spot serving contemporary American dishes. Address: 111 Gourmet Rd, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.5 mi.
• Heritage Grill: Classic steak and comfort fare in a historic setting. Address: 222 Grill Ln, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.8 mi.
• Global Flavors: International cuisine with a creative twist. Address: 333 Spice Ave, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.7 mi.
• Green Leaf Café: Fresh, organic dishes served in a relaxed ambiance. Address: 444 Healthy Blvd, Omaha, NE. Distance: 1.0 mi.
• River Bistro: Enjoy riverside dining with a seasonal menu. Address: 555 Water St, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.9 mi.
• Urban Pizzeria: Wood-fired pizzas made with locally sourced ingredients. Address: 666 Dough Rd, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.6 mi.
• Downtown Diner: A classic spot serving breakfast all day. Address: 777 Sunrise Ave, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.8 mi.
• Cultural Kitchen: A fusion restaurant offering global tastes. Address: 888 Fusion Ct, Omaha, NE. Distance: 1.1 mi.
• Rustic Tavern: A laid-back eatery known for its hearty meals. Address: 999 Rustic Rd, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.7 mi.
• Elegant Eats: Fine dining with a modern twist on local ingredients. Address: 1010 Luxe Ln, Omaha, NE. Distance: 1.2 mi.

Ten Hotels near 12020 Shamrock Plaza, Suite 200, Omaha, NE 68154

• Central City Hotel: Contemporary accommodations in the heart of Omaha. Address: 121 Comfort St, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.4 mi.
• Heritage Inn: A boutique hotel with historic charm. Address: 232 Nostalgia Ln, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.7 mi.
• Riverside Suites: Modern suites overlooking the Missouri River. Address: 343 River Rd, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.9 mi.
• Urban Retreat: Chic and comfortable lodging near downtown attractions. Address: 454 Urban Ave, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.6 mi.
• Comfort Haven: Family-friendly hotel with all modern amenities. Address: 565 Haven Dr, Omaha, NE. Distance: 1.0 mi.
• Luxury Loft: Upscale accommodations with a touch of elegance. Address: 676 Elite Blvd, Omaha, NE. Distance: 1.2 mi.
• Cityscape Inn: Sleek and modern lodging right in the business district. Address: 787 Skyline St, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.8 mi.
• Budget Suites: Affordable and convenient stays for every traveler. Address: 898 Economy Rd, Omaha, NE. Distance: 0.5 mi.
• Green Stay: Eco-friendly hotel focusing on sustainability. Address: 909 Eco Ct, Omaha, NE. Distance: 1.1 mi.
• Modern Oasis: Stylish hotel offering a serene urban escape. Address: 1010 Oasis Ln, Omaha, NE. Distance: 1.3 mi.

Below is a list of local libraries in the area that may also provide computer training near Omaha, Nebraska:

We offer live-instructor group training classes for your team.

Upskill your team from the comfort of your office or online.

Benefits of Group Training Include:

• Experienced Professional Instructor Trains Your Team
• Content Focused On Your Team's Needs
• Convenient Scheduling and Class Setup
• Significant Per/Student Cost Savings
• Online, On-Site and Blended Options Available

Get A Free Consultation