The Spreadsheet Is Dead. Long Live the Spreadsheet.
If you think Excel is just rows and columns, 2026 has a surprise for you. Microsoft has transformed its flagship productivity tool into an AI-powered analytics platform. With Python now natively integrated into Excel and Copilot handling natural language queries, the gap between “spreadsheet user” and “data analyst” has never been narrower.
The numbers tell the story: the global business intelligence market is projected to reach USD 54.9 billion by 2029, growing at 13.1% annually. Organisations are desperate for people who can turn raw data into actionable insights — and Excel and Power BI remain the tools of choice for the vast majority of businesses.
What’s Changed in 2026
Three seismic shifts are reshaping the data analytics landscape:
Natural Language Analytics: By 2026, 40% of all analytics queries are created using natural language. Instead of writing complex formulas or SQL, professionals simply ask their data questions in plain English. Copilot in Power BI and Excel makes this accessible to everyone.
Real-Time Decision Making: Static monthly reports are giving way to live dashboards and streaming data. Power BI’s enhanced real-time capabilities let teams visualise trends and make decisions on the most current information available.
Analytics Everywhere: The biggest shift? Dashboards are no longer the default. In 2026, analytics shows up where decisions actually happen — in spreadsheets, chat apps, internal tools, and workflow applications.
Build the Skills That Employers Want
Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to advance, IACT has a learning path for you:
- Excel for Beginners — Build a rock-solid foundation in the world’s most-used business tool.
- Excel Advanced — Data Analysis — Master PivotTables, advanced formulas, and data modelling techniques.
- Excel VBA — Automate repetitive tasks and build custom solutions with macros.
- Excel Automation with Python — Combine Excel’s familiarity with Python’s power for advanced data processing.
- Power BI — Create stunning interactive dashboards and reports that drive business decisions.
- Data Analysis Using DAX — Master the formula language behind Power BI’s most powerful calculations.
- Excel Master Diploma — The comprehensive programme covering everything from basics to VBA.
- Data Analytics Master Diploma — Your complete pathway to becoming a data analytics professional.
- Excelerate Seminars — Focused, intensive sessions on specific Excel topics.
The data revolution won’t wait. Start your Excel and data analytics journey with IACT today.