Class Note: New Features in Excel Pivot Tables – Images & Data Types

Objective

Learn about recent Excel features that allow you to include images and data types (like country info, flags, and custom data) directly in pivot tables, enhancing the visual appeal and usefulness of your reports.

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Key Points

1. Including Pictures in Excel Pivot Tables

• New Feature: Excel now supports inserting images directly into pivot tables.
• How to Insert Images in Cells:
  • Use the new "Place in Cell" feature:
    • Go to Insert > Illustrations > Pictures > Place in Cell.
    • Select picture from this device or online.
  • Use formulas (like XLOOKUP) to tie images to data.
• Pivot Table Integration:
  • Images can be dragged into pivot table rows or columns.
  • Image size adjusts with cell size.
  • Number formatting applies as normal to numeric data.

2. Using Data Types in Pivot Tables

• Geography Data Type:
  • Convert a column (e.g., Country) to a data type via Data > Data Types > Geography.
  • Once recognized, a small icon appears, allowing access to a rich information card (population, major cities, etc.).
  • This information can help analysts avoid country mix-ups and support richer conversations with customers.
• Extracting Extra Info:
  • Hover over the data card to extract info (e.g., flags) to new columns in your table.
  • Refresh the pivot table for new fields (like flags) to become available for pivoting.

3. Enhancing Pivot Table Appearance

• Formatting Tips:
  • Adjust image/cell size for better visuals.
  • Use the tabular layout for a cleaner look.
  • Disable unwanted summary buttons (plus/minus).
  • Apply consistent number/data formatting.

4. Example: Top Customers Pivot Table

• Duplicate your pivot table and modify fields.
• Use value filters (e.g., top 5 customers by earnings).
• Sort results for clear analysis of popular courses among top customers.

5. Custom Data Types in Pivot Tables

• Custom Data Types: You can create and use your own data types (e.g., employee info with photo, position, salary).
  • Access via Data > Data Types (custom types need to be created separately).
  • Extract any field (like image or salary) into your table for pivot table use.
• Performance Review Example:
  • Show staff grouped by last performance review category.
  • Include staff pictures and other custom details directly in the pivot table.

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Summary

• Excel's new features allow embedding images and leveraging both built-in and custom data types directly in pivot tables.
• These capabilities make reports more visually appealing and informative.
• Available soon for all users; more information or tutorials are offered in the content creator’s additional videos.

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Example Uses

• Show course images alongside financial data.
• Display country flags and relevant info in sales/customer analysis.
• HR dashboards: visualize employee reviews with photos and details.

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Tips

• Refresh your pivot table when adding new fields/data.
• For custom data types, some setup is required outside default Excel tools.
• Use tabular form and appropriate formatting for clarity.

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Let the creator know your thoughts and stay tuned for more tips!