Event Name: FDP on Power of Excel using AI	Event Date: 01th- 05th June 2025
Faculty Coordinators:Dr. Saumendra Mohanty, Mr. Mohit Agrawal, Dr. Neetu Kamra, Ms.Neha Issar	Organizing InstituteFostiima Business School
Number of Participants:30	Mode: Online

Objectives:

The Faculty Development Program was organized with the following objectives:

• To enhance decision-making capabilities using Excel and Artificial Intelligence tools.
• To develop analytical thinking through data-driven approaches.
• To train faculty members in advanced Excel functionalities for analysis and reporting.
• To introduce the application of AI in business and academic decision making.
• To bridge the gap between traditional spreadsheet analysis and modern AI-enabled insights.
• To strengthen practical skills required for teaching and research applications.

Detailed Report

Day 1: Introduction to Data-Driven Decision Making

The first day focused on the fundamentals of data-driven decision making. Participants were introduced to the role of Excel and AI in enhancing analytical accuracy and efficiency.

Key discussions included:

• Importance of data in managerial and academic decisions.
• Overview of Excel as a decision-support tool.
• Introduction to AI concepts relevant to business analytics.

The session established a strong foundation for the programme.

Day 2: Advanced Excel Techniques for Analysis

The second day emphasized advanced Excel tools and techniques used for effective data analysis.

Major areas covered were:

• Data cleaning and structuring.
• Use of formulas and functions for analysis.
• Pivot tables and data summarization.
• Visualization of data for better interpretation.

Participants gained hands-on exposure to analytical Excel features.

Day 3: Integrating AI with Excel for Smarter Insights

The third day focused on the integration of Artificial Intelligence with Excel to generate smarter and faster insights.

Key topics included:

• AI-assisted data analysis.
• Predictive insights using AI-enabled tools.
• Enhancing decision accuracy through automation.

The session helped participants understand how AI complements traditional analytical tools.

Day 4: Practical Applications in Decision Making

The fourth day emphasized real-world applications of Excel and AI in decision-making scenarios.

Discussions included:

• Case-based applications of Excel and AI.
• Business and academic decision-making models.
• Interpretation of analytical outputs for strategic decisions.

Participants learned how to apply analytical tools in practical situations.

Day 5: Consolidation, Best Practices, and Future Scope

The final day focused on consolidation of learning and best practices.

Key areas covered:

• Reviewing key concepts learned during the FDP.
• Best practices in data analysis and AI usage.
• Future scope of Excel and AI in education and research.
• Reflection on applying learned tools in teaching and professional work.

The programme concluded with an overall discussion on continuous skill enhancement.

Learning Outcomes

After attending the Faculty Development Program, participants were able to:

• Understand the role of Excel and AI in effective decision making.
• Apply advanced Excel tools for data analysis and visualization.
• Integrate AI-driven insights into analytical processes.
• Enhance analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Use data-driven approaches in teaching, research, and professional tasks.
• Improve confidence in handling complex datasets and decision scenarios.