​Two training workshops focusing on preparing statistical reports and effective usage of Microsoft Excel aimed at upskilling the statisticians began yesterday at the (NCSI). The workshop on report writing will be for three days while the other on Excel will be for five days. The course on report writing is attended by employees and heads of departments from both NCSI and outside agencies who deal with the analysis and presentation of statistical data. The course aims to provide the participants with the necessary skills to prepare statistical reports that are clear and specific. The course will also guide them as to how to take advantage of the existing sources and reports. Other topics that will be discussed during the program include the fundamentals of structuring and reporting basics data and optimal use of resources, information and numbers. The best methods of presenting statistical information, duly supported by figures, charts, drawings and diagrams and also ways to compile and summarize data for statistical reports will also be discussed. Beyond these, the workshop will focus on the common approaches, standards and methods of writing reports as well. The training program underscores the importance that NCSI attaches to statistical reports as the main tool that enables and supports decision-making across organizations and companies, and also the need for employees to acquire specialised skills to communicate statistical information efficiently and accurately. Meanwhile the program on Excel is designed to familiarize the participants with the basic statistical methods used in data analysis. It also aims to enable the participants to produce statistical indicators using MS Excel program, and also to interpret and use them in their respective fields. It will have sessions that teach the participants to use the multi-dimensional aspects and features of the Excel program. Data processing using Excel will also be discussed at the workshop. It is worth mentioning that Excel offers a lot of amazing and efficient tools to help users in data entry operations, and as such the training program is suitable for users of various statistical programs, an NCSI official said, adding, the two workshops are part of a series of training  projects designed by the Centre for the benefit of NCSI employees and also statisticians from various government agencies. NCSI plays a leading role in the dissemination of statistical knowledge among professionals and workers in the statistical field, as the nodal government agency tasked with statistical capacity building in the Sultanate.