This course is designed for individuals and organizations who:

Know their data has a story to tell, but are unsure how to tell it. You have data, and maybe you have the data packaged in charts, but you need to craft visualizations that communicate insights, not just information.

Regularly make charts, but are never quite sure that they are as effective as they should be. You know the basics of creating data visualizations, but you lack the knowledge and skills to ensure that they achieve your goals. 

Want to learn best practices for creating effective charts. You see data visualizations in your professional life — sometimes they resonate, and sometimes they don’t, but you don’t know why.

By the end of this three-week cohort, you will have:

Confidence to Analyze Data Visualizations
Walk away with the knowledge of best practices, allowing you to analyze data visualizations and feel inspired to create your own and learn more.

Applicable Skills for Communicating Impact
Learn how to create data visualizations using your preferred platform, both through cohort sessions and a one-on-one meeting with IA’s data visualization expert.

Chart Templates and Instructions
Receive templates in Excel and Google Sheets for the most common chart types – the ones you’ll use most of the time. 

Peer Learning from Like-minded Colleagues
Exchange challenges and solutions with a small cohort of organizations navigating similar questions, fostering connections that extend beyond the program.

Duration: Three weeks, starting June 4, 2026

Format: Virtual cohort sessions + individual support via Zoom

Weekly Structure:

• Courses will take place Thursdays between 12 - 1:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time

• Group sessions exploring the principles of data visualization and how-tos for creating the most commonly used charts

• Participants will complete structured exercises between sessions (30 to 60 minutes per week)

• One personalized 90-minute consultations with IA

Team Participation: Up to two staff members per organization

Cohort Size: Limited to eight organizations
Small cohorts ensure meaningful peer exchange and personalized attention

Investment: $1,000 per organization

Applications open early May 2026 and close May 22, 2026. We'll select up to eight organizations for our cohort based on organizational readiness, team commitment, and capacity to implement impact practices.

Application Requirements:

• Basic organizational information

• Brief description of your current skills

• What you hope to gain from the program

• Confirmation of team member participation

Timeline:

• Early May 2025: Applications open

• May 22, 2026: Applications close

• May 29, 2026: Selected cohort notified

• June 4, 2026: Program begins

How much time will it take each week? Expect a 90-minute virtual session plus light exercises to refine your skills between meetings.

What if we can't attend all the sessions? Consistent participation is essential for cohort learning. We'll provide recordings, but real-time engagement ensures you get the most value.

Can we bring more than two team members? To maintain productive cohort dynamics, we limit participation to two per organization. You're welcome to share materials internally.

Is this program right for us if we already have some data visualization skills? Yes! Participants will be able to use Blueprints to sharpen skills, socialize best practices, and gain fresh perspective.

Do I need to have access to any platforms before starting the course? In general, no. Most demonstrations will use web-based platforms that only require access to the internet. While not required, it is recommended that you have access to Excel. We will also do tutorials using Tableau, and you can download Tableau Public for free with registration.