How to Use Copilot in Excel: Screenshot of the Excel Copilot video on Youtube analyzing donor data with graphs and insights.
Welcome to our deep dive into donor data with Excel Copilot! We will explore insights from our donor dataset to understand donor behavior, campaign effectiveness, and seasonal trends. Let’s learn how to use Copilot in Excel and dive into the data to see what stories it tells us.
How to Use Copilot in Excel with Copilot Prompts
To begin, look for the Copilot icon in the upper right corner. Copilot suggests actions such as „show data insights“, which we’ll select. Then select „+ Add to new sheet.“
Visual Enhancement
To make our data more engaging, let’s add a colorful icon next to donors whose donation amount exceeds $100. This visual cue will help us quickly identify high-value donors.
Excel Copilot Prompt: Add a colorful icon if Donation_Amount is more than 100.
Days Since Last Donation
Next, we’ll calculate the number of days since each donor’s last donation. This will help us identify recent donors versus those who haven’t donated in a while.
Excel Copilot Prompt: Calculate the number of days since each donor’s last donation and add this as a new column. Action Step: Insert Column
Campaign Effectiveness
Let’s analyze how different communication methods, such as email and phone, impact donation amounts. We will identify which method is most effective for different donor segments.
Excel Copilot Prompt: Analyze the effectiveness of different communication methods (email, phone) on donation amounts. Identify which method is most effective for different donor segments.
Occupation Impact
Let’s examine the impact of donor occupations on their donation behavior. We’ll look at donation amounts and frequencies across various occupations to see which ones are associated with the highest donations.
Excel Copilot Prompt: Examine how a donor’s occupation affects their donation behavior, including donation amount and frequency. Identify which occupations are associated with the highest donations.
Lifetime Value (LTV)
Next, we will compute the lifetime value of each donor, which is the total amount donated over time. This will give us a sense of each donor’s value to our organization.
Excel Copilot Prompt: Compute the lifetime value (total donations over time) for each donor and add it as a new column. Action Step: Insert Column
Seasonal Donation Trends
We’ll identify seasonal trends in donations by calculating the total donations for each donor during different seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. These insights will help us tailor our campaigns to seasonal patterns.
Excel Copilot Prompt: Identify seasonal trends by calculating the total donations for each donor during different seasons (spring, summer, fall, winter) and add these as new columns. Action Step: Insert Columns
Conclusion
By analyzing these aspects of our donor data, we gain valuable insights into donor behavior, campaign effectiveness, and seasonal trends. This information will empower us to make informed decisions and enhance our fundraising strategies. Thank you for joining me in this data exploration. Let’s open the floor for any questions or further discussion!
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful demos and data-driven strategies! If you’re interested in learning more about the impact of AI, check out my book Decisively Digital (Amazon).
Visualize This: A Deep Dive into Data Visualization
Nathan Yau’s Visualize This has long been a staple for data enthusiasts, and the updated second edition brings fresh techniques, technologies, and examples that reflect the rapidly evolving landscape of data visualization.
Core Highlights of This Book
Data-First Approach: Yau emphasizes that effective visualizations start with a deep understanding of the data. This foundational principle ensures that the resulting graphics are not just visually appealing but also accurately convey the underlying information.
Diverse Toolkit: The book introduces a wide range of tools, including the latest R packages, Python libraries, JavaScript libraries, and illustration software. Yau’s pragmatic approach helps readers choose the right tool for the job without feeling overwhelmed by options.
Real-World Applications: With practical, hands-on examples using real-world datasets, readers learn to create meaningful visualizations. This experiential learning approach is particularly valuable for grasping the subtleties of data representation.
Comprehensive Tutorials: The step-by-step guides are a standout feature, covering statistical graphics, geographical maps, and information design. These tutorials provide clear, actionable instructions that make complex visualizations accessible.
Web and Print Design: Yau details how to create visuals suitable for various mediums, ensuring versatility in application whether for digital platforms or printed materials.
Personal Insights on Visualize This
Having taught data strategy and visualization for seven years, I find Visualize This to be an exceptional resource for a broad audience. Yau skillfully integrates scientific data visualization techniques with graphic design principles, providing practical advice along the way. The book’s toolkit is extensive, featuring R, Illustrator, XML, Python (with BeautifulSoup), JSON, and more, each with working code examples to demonstrate real-world applications.
Visualize This featuring a colorful 24-hour activity visualization based on data from the American Time Use Survey.
Even though I read the first edition years ago, I couldn’t put the second edition down all weekend. This book is a must-read for anyone who handles data or prepares data-based reports. Its beautiful presentation and careful consideration of every aspect—from typeface to page layout—make it a pleasure to read.
The book is user-friendly, offering a massive set of references and free tools for obtaining interesting datasets across various fields, from sports to politics to health. This breadth of resources is crucial for anyone looking to create impactful visualizations across different domains.
While the focus on Adobe Illustrator might be daunting due to its cost and learning curve, Yau’s examples show how Illustrator can enhance graphics created in other tools like SAS and R. I personally prefer the open-source Inkscape, but Yau’s insights helped me overcome my initial reluctance to use Illustrator, leading to more polished and professional visuals.
Yau uses R, Python, and Adobe Illustrator to demonstrate what can be achieved with imagination and creativity. Although some readers might desire more complex walkthroughs from raw data to final graphics, such material would require substantial foundational knowledge in R and Python. Including this would make the book significantly thicker and veer off from its focus on creating visually appealing graphics.
Conclusion: Visualize This is Essential Reading for Data Professionals
Visualize This (Amazon) is an indispensable guide for anyone serious about data visualization. Its methodical, data-first approach, combined with practical tutorials and a comprehensive toolkit, makes it a must-read for information designers, analysts, journalists, statisticians, and data scientists.
For those looking to refine their data visualization skills and create compelling, accurate graphics, this book offers invaluable insights and techniques.
Connect with me on LinkedIn and Twitter for more reviews and insights on the latest in data & AI, and #datamustread:
Fake news is a powerful tool used to mislead the public, often with significant consequences. As technology advances, the ability to create convincing, yet entirely false, information has grown, making it increasingly challenging to distinguish fact from fiction.
Fake news refers to deliberately false or misleading information presented as news. This includes fabricated stories, doctored images, or videos designed to deceive. Unlike misinformation, which is incorrect information shared without intent to deceive, fake news is specifically crafted to manipulate public perception. Learning how to spot fake news is crucial, especially during elections when the stakes are highest, and misleading information can influence voter decisions or create confusion about crucial issues.
During election cycles, fake news can mislead voters in many ways, from false reports about candidates to fabricated scandals designed to sway public opinion. It can take the form of sensational headlines, altered images, or entirely fictitious stories that go viral. Understanding how to spot fake news can prevent the spread of false information that might otherwise mislead voters about where or how to vote, misrepresent candidates’ positions, or undermine trust in the electoral process.
How to Spot Fake News: Key Tips
In a world where AI can generate realistic content, staying informed and vigilant is crucial. Here’s how you can spot fake news and help combat its spread:
Check Your Sources: Verify that the information you’re consuming comes from reputable, trusted news outlets or official election authorities. Be skeptical of sensational headlines or stories that seem too outrageous to be true.
Prioritize Accuracy Over Speed: Before sharing political content, take the time to fact-check. Rushing to share news can lead to the spread of fake information. Ensuring accuracy before sharing is a key step in how to spot fake news.
Report Suspected Fake News: Many social media platforms now allow users to flag suspicious content. If you encounter a story, image, or video that you suspect might be fake, report it to help prevent the spread of false information.
Stay Media Literate: As tactics for creating fake news evolve, so too must your skills in media literacy. Continuously educating yourself about new forms of disinformation and fact-checking techniques is essential in how to spot fake news effectively.
Why Is Learning How to Spot Fake News Important?
Fake news isn’t just an online nuisance; it’s a real threat to democracy. Misleading information can distort public discourse, undermine trust in elections, and even impact electoral outcomes. By understanding how to spot fake news, you contribute to a more informed and resilient society.
Test Your Fake News Detection Skills
Think you know how to spot fake news? Test your skills with our Real or Fake quiz. This quiz challenges you to distinguish between genuine information and AI-generated fabrications. It’s a fun and educational way to improve your ability to spot fake news and protect yourself from being misled.
Take the quiz today and share it with your friends. Together, we can help keep elections fair and informed!
A vibrant street in Kunming, Yunnan, China, showcasing the bustling local life with people walking, street vendors selling goods, and traditional architecture in the background. The scene captures the lively atmosphere and cultural richness of Kunming’s streets.
Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province in Southwest China, is often referred to as the „City of Eternal Spring“ for its mild climate and beautiful weather year-round. My recent trip to this vibrant city was an incredible adventure filled with stunning sights, rich cultural experiences, and mouth-watering cuisine. Join me as I take you through the highlights of my journey through Kunming.
Arrival and First Impressions
From the moment I arrived at Kunming Changshui International Airport, I was impressed by the efficiency and friendliness of the staff. Navigating through the airport was a breeze, thanks to clear signage and quick baggage transfer. The ride from the airport to the city center offered a glimpse of Kunming’s picturesque landscapes, setting the tone for an unforgettable visit.
One of my first stops was Guandu Ancient Town, a historic area brimming with charm and character. Walking through its narrow streets lined with traditional Chinese architecture, I felt transported back in time. The town is a perfect blend of old and new, with ancient temples, vibrant markets, and quaint tea houses coexisting harmoniously.
Green Lake Park, or Cuihu Park, is a must-visit in Kunming. This urban oasis is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. I spent a peaceful afternoon wandering around the lake, watching people practice tai chi, and admiring the beautiful lotus flowers. The park’s serene atmosphere is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
During my adventure in Kunming, a visit to Tai Hua Si Temple was an unexpected delight that added a spiritual and cultural depth to my journey. Nestled on the western shore of Dianchi Lake and at the foot of the Western Hills, Tai Hua Si Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Yunnan Province.
As I approached the temple, the serene ambiance was immediately apparent. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering ancient trees, the temple complex exudes a sense of tranquility and calm. The air was filled with the faint scent of incense, and the gentle sound of chanting monks added to the peaceful atmosphere.
Tai Hua Si Temple, originally built during the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368), boasts a rich history that is reflected in its stunning architecture. The temple complex includes several halls and pavilions, each adorned with intricate carvings and detailed paintings. The main hall houses a magnificent statue of Buddha, while the surrounding halls contain various deities and historical relics.
One of the highlights of my journey to Kunming was undoubtedly the exploration of its vibrant local cuisine. Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, boasts a unique culinary landscape that is both diverse and delicious, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and the abundance of fresh ingredients available in the region. Must-try dishes:
Crossing the Bridge Noodles (过桥米线) A trip to Kunming is incomplete without trying the famous Crossing the Bridge Noodles. This iconic dish consists of a rich, steaming broth served with a variety of ingredients including thinly sliced meat, vegetables, and rice noodles. The unique aspect is that the ingredients are added to the hot broth at the table, ensuring they are perfectly cooked and fresh.
Steam Pot Chicken (汽锅鸡) Another local favorite is Steam Pot Chicken. This dish is prepared using a special clay pot with a central chimney. The chicken is slow-cooked with herbs and spices, resulting in tender meat and a flavorful broth that is both comforting and nourishing.
Erkuai (饵块) Erkuai is a traditional Yunnan rice cake made from glutinous rice. It can be served in various ways, such as stir-fried with vegetables and meats, or grilled and topped with savory or sweet condiments. Its chewy texture and versatility make it a beloved snack among locals and visitors alike.
Kunming Old Street is another highlight of the city. The area is a fascinating blend of traditional and modern, with unique snacks, upscale vintage hotels, and vibrant street life. A notable stop was Xiongqi Yingxiang Hotpot, where the rich flavors and authentic ingredients made for a memorable meal.
During my trip, I discovered the RG353V by ANBERNIC – a small, handy retro gaming device that fits perfectly in the hand. It offers excellent picture quality thanks to its 3.5-inch IPS touchscreen and is perfect for passing the time during flights. The device can emulate numerous systems, including NES, SNES, N64, GBA, PS1, PSP, DOS, and even Dreamcast. With its RK3566 chip and 2 GB RAM, the RG353V provides enough power for smooth gameplay. The RG353V features two analog sticks, a precise D-pad, and well-placed action buttons. It is equipped with two SD card slots, a mini HDMI output, two USB-C ports, and a 3200 mAh battery that ensures long gaming sessions. The combination of portable size and high performance makes the RG353V the perfect companion for retro gaming on the go.
Final Thoughts and Further Reading
Kunming is truly a gem in China’s travel landscape. Its perfect blend of cultural heritage and modern vibrancy makes it a unique destination. I highly recommend adding Kunming to your travel bucket list – you won’t be disappointed!
If you’ve enjoyed reading about my journey, be sure to follow me on Instagram and TikTok for more travel updates and photos from my adventures in Kunming and beyond. For deeper insights into China’s modern culture, I highly recommend the book Young China by Zak Dychtwald. It offers a fascinating look into the lives and perspectives of China’s youth today.
I hope this blog post inspires you to explore Kunming and experience all the amazing things this city has to offer. Happy travels!
Blockchain Future: Philipp Sandner, Head of Frankfurt School Blockchain Center at Frankfurt School of Finance & Management
Philipp Sandner is a prominent voice in blockchain innovation. As head of the FSBC, his expertise spans blockchain technology, crypto-assets, the programmable digital euro, tokenization, and digital identity. In this Decisively Digital Conversation, we discuss the evolution of blockchain from its Bitcoin origins to the transformative potential of smart contracts, decentralized finance (DeFi), and beyond.
Alexander Loth: What is your mission as head of the Frankfurt School Blockchain Center?
Philipp Sandner: Our mission at FSBC is to drive blockchain adoption across industries, governments, and academia. The focus is on educating the next generation of innovators—our students—while supporting decision-makers in corporations and policymakers. Blockchain has proven its potential to reshape global systems, from supply chains to financial services, offering unprecedented transparency, efficiency, and security.
One of the most exciting developments is the European Union’s proactive approach to blockchain. Initiatives like the European Blockchain Services Infrastructure (EBSI) aim to build a robust foundation for trusted digital services. It’s inspiring to see young professionals and students eager to embrace this technology, laying the groundwork for its integration into industries and governments.
Alexander Loth: Since its inception in 2008 by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin has ignited global interest in blockchain. What lessons can we draw from the operation of this revolutionary blockchain?
Philipp Sandner: Bitcoin’s most remarkable achievement is its resilience and trustless architecture. Over 15 years, it has grown from a 10-page whitepaper to a $1 trillion market capitalization at its peak, supported by thousands of independent nodes worldwide.
The beauty of Bitcoin lies in its simplicity—a decentralized ledger that ensures transparency, security, and immutability. The first-mover advantage remains a critical factor, much like Facebook’s dominance in social media. Even with competing cryptocurrencies and technologies, Bitcoin’s network effect has solidified its position as „digital gold.“
In 2024, we see increased integration of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies into mainstream financial ecosystems. The growing acceptance of Bitcoin ETFs and institutional adoption further demonstrates its staying power. However, challenges like energy consumption and scalability remain focal points for innovation.
Alexander Loth: Energy consumption has been a significant critique of Bitcoin. How is the blockchain industry addressing this?
Philipp Sandner: Bitcoin’s energy usage has sparked intense debates, but the narrative is evolving. Approximately 70% of Bitcoin mining is now powered by renewable energy, making it a driver for sustainable energy solutions. Innovations in energy markets—such as utilizing stranded renewable energy in remote locations—are reshaping the conversation.
Moreover, alternative consensus mechanisms like Proof of Stake (PoS), prominently adopted by Ethereum during its transition in 2022, have demonstrated that blockchain networks can operate with significantly reduced energy consumption. While Bitcoin remains on Proof of Work (PoW) for its security and decentralization, newer blockchains are pushing the envelope toward energy efficiency.
Alexander Loth: Privacy concerns persist regarding public blockchains. How can these issues be addressed?
Philipp Sandner: The transparency of public blockchains is both a strength and a challenge. Projects like Monero and Zcash focus on privacy-enhanced transactions, offering lessons for mainstream networks. Additionally, zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) technologies have matured significantly, enabling verification without revealing underlying data.
In the context of regulated industries, privacy-focused layer-two solutions are emerging to meet compliance requirements. For instance, zkEVM-based rollups on Ethereum provide scalability and privacy, while central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) incorporate privacy safeguards for selective data disclosure.
Alexander Loth: In an era dominated by misinformation and deepfakes, how can blockchain technology safeguard the authenticity of digital content?
Philipp Sandner: Blockchain is set to become the „digital notary of the 21st century“—a guardian of truth in an age of uncertainty. Its immutable and transparent ledger allows us to timestamp and verify the origin of digital content, ensuring that information remains tamper-proof and traceable.
This has profound implications for journalism, social media, and intellectual property. Imagine a world where news articles and videos come with cryptographic signatures that verify their source, or where diplomas and certificates are instantly authenticated on-chain. Projects like The News Provenance Project and NFT-based content verification platforms are already proving that blockchain can protect creators, consumers, and institutions alike from manipulation and fraud.
While challenges around scalability and regulation persist, one thing is clear—blockchain doesn’t just store data; it preserves trust. And in today’s information economy, trust is everything.
Alexander Loth: Smart contracts promise to revolutionize industries. How do you see them shaping the future?
Philipp Sandner: Smart contracts are already disrupting industries by automating processes, reducing costs, and eliminating intermediaries. DeFi has been a game-changer, unlocking decentralized lending, borrowing, and trading protocols. For instance, Uniswap and Aave have demonstrated how financial services can operate autonomously and transparently.
Beyond finance, supply chain management, insurance, and healthcare are adopting smart contracts for seamless operations. Imagine a world where crop insurance automatically pays farmers after satellite data confirms a drought. These use cases are no longer hypothetical—they’re being piloted globally.
In 2024, the rise of enterprise blockchains like Hyperledger Fabric and permissioned Ethereum networks is bridging the gap between public blockchain innovation and corporate adoption.
Alexander Loth: Financial inclusion is a key benefit of blockchain. How has progress been made in reaching unbanked populations?
Philipp Sandner: Blockchain-based solutions have significantly expanded access to financial services. Stablecoins like USDC and the rise of mobile wallets have enabled individuals in underbanked regions to transact securely without traditional banking infrastructure. Initiatives like Stellar and Celo focus explicitly on financial inclusion, empowering communities to store, send, and receive funds with just a smartphone.
The intersection of blockchain and remittances is particularly impactful. In 2024, the cost of cross-border transactions through blockchain is a fraction of traditional methods, ensuring that more value reaches families instead of being absorbed by intermediaries.
Alexander Loth: What advice would you offer to companies exploring blockchain technology?
Philipp Sandner: Start with education and small-scale pilots. Blockchain’s complexity demands a thorough understanding, which can be challenging for senior management. Hands-on experimentation—like tokenizing assets or integrating blockchain for supply chain tracking—provides practical insights.
Organizations should also embrace partnerships. Consortia such as the Ethereum Enterprise Alliance and the Linux Foundation’s Hyperledger project allow companies to learn from peers and collaborate on industry standards.
Finally, treat blockchain as a long-term strategic investment rather than a quick fix. Its potential to transform infrastructure and create new business models is immense but requires commitment and vision.
Alexander Loth: As we look to the future, what excites you most about blockchain and decentralized technologies?
Philipp Sandner: The convergence of blockchain, AI, and IoT holds incredible potential. Blockchain ensures data integrity, IoT devices generate real-time data, and AI analyzes it for actionable insights. Together, they can transform industries—from predictive healthcare powered by secure patient data to autonomous vehicles sharing real-time updates on blockchain.
I’m particularly excited about decentralized identity systems. With advancements in Web3, individuals can own and control their digital identities, reducing reliance on centralized platforms. Projects like Microsoft’s Entra Verified ID are pioneering this space, enabling secure and privacy-preserving identity verification.
The next decade will likely see blockchain evolve into a foundational layer of our digital society, much like the internet did 30 years ago.
Alexander Loth: Finally, what is the best advice you have ever received?
Philipp Sandner: A great source of advice comes from Sheryl Sandberg’s book Lean In. Some key takeaways that resonate with me are:
Sit at the Table: Don’t shy away from opportunities; put yourself forward.
Address Gender Stereotypes: If you need to negotiate, clarify why you’re doing so but don’t fail to stand up for yourself.
Make Your Partner a Real Partner: Successful careers often involve a supportive home environment.
Offer What the Employer Needs: Align your strengths with what the organization truly values.
Time Is Scarce: You can’t do it all; life is about trade-offs and prioritizing what matters most.
Conclusion on Blockchain’s Future
Blockchain technology has come a long way since the Bitcoin whitepaper of 2008. In just over a decade, it has expanded into a multitude of use cases—from finance and healthcare to identity management and beyond. Prof. Dr. Philipp Sandner emphasizes both the enormous potential of blockchain and the practical challenges to be overcome, including energy consumption, privacy, and regulatory considerations. Whether by speeding up cross-border transactions, facilitating financial inclusion, or transforming how we handle personal data, blockchain and smart contracts offer new horizons for innovation and societal impact. The blockchain future is just beginning.
What is a Decisively Digital Conversation?
Decisively Digital Conversations are incisive interviews with digital masterminds driving innovation at some of today’s top global organizations. The first 24 interviews are featured in the book Decisively Digital, offering insights into the future of technology, data, and AI.
I am continuing this series here on my blog, diving deeper into the trends and technologies shaping our digital world. Stay tuned for more conversations with thought leaders who are redefining the boundaries of what’s possible in the digital age!
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date = {2024-01-14},
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