Teaching data visualization skills to improve employability

Problem

Alison is one of the world’s largest free online learning platforms, offering skills-based education to a global audience of over 30 million learners. Focused on career readiness and workplace development, Alison continuously seeks innovative ways to upskill its students using real-world applications.

As demand for data-driven roles continues to grow across industries, Alison recognized a critical need among its learners: practical skills in data visualization that go beyond theory.

Their goals were clear:

  • Build a course that uses real data sets and industry-relevant tools

  • Help learners tell compelling stories with data for clients and employers

  • Provide a recognized certification that strengthens employability

The solution needed to feel immediately useful in the workplace—bridging the gap between learning and on-the-job performance.

Solution

Working collaboratively, we created a 4-hour CPD-accredited certificate program, taught entirely through Looker Studio (formerly know as Google Data Studio).

Key features of the course:

  • Workplace-relevant learning: Students analyze real data and design polished reports tailored to client needs.

  • Hands-on practice: The course walks learners through different analysis techniques, data interpretation, and storytelling strategies.

  • Interactive assessment design: Reinforces retention with varied assessment formats including “Hotspot”, “True/False”, and “Multiple Choice”.

  • Learning by doing: Built around real tools, used in real scenarios, to build real capabilities.

Results

The course has exceeded expectations and delivered on all learning objectives including:

Over 6,500 learners enrolled worldwide

The course has gained traction across continents, equipping a diverse learner base with practical, job-ready skills in data visualization.

CPD-accredited for professional credibility

Learners earn a recognized credential that adds weight to resumes, portfolios, and LinkedIn profiles—reinforcing career advancement potential.

Applied skills across sectors

Students are putting their learning to work in real-life scenarios—from freelance data reporting to internal corporate dashboards and NGO analytics.

Recognized for real-world skills impact

The course stands out on the Alison platform as a benchmark for effective, outcome-based training with immediate real-world application.

Project Info

Category

Education

Client

Alison

Date

04 Jul 2021

Alison's goal to provide free online education to all aligns perfectly with Lacho's impressive range of interactive courses. Alison and SkildLabs are eager to provide courses for everyone from absolute beginners to experienced students who want to brush up on their skills. Lacho is a pleasure to work with and we look forward to our continued efforts to educate and empower people.

Maeve Richardson

Maeve Richardson

Head of Self-Publishing, Alison