LSU-01

Google Looker Studio Unlocked
Formats: Asynchronous
Online
Onsite
Level: Beginner
Prerequisites:
Recommended Knowledge
Spreadsheet Literacy
Google Cloud Awareness

Formats: We offer our training content in a flexible format to suit your needs. Contact Us if you wish to know if we can accommodate your unique requirements.

Level: We are happy to customize course content to suit your skill level and learning goals. Contact us for a customized learning path.

Google Looker Studio Unlocked (LSU-01)

Looker Studio Unlocked

Mastering Modern Data Storytelling and AI-Driven Analytics in South Africa

In the data-heavy landscape of 2026, the ability to transform raw information into compelling visual narratives is a superpower. Looker Studio Unlocked (BI-LS-UNL) is a comprehensive course designed to take you from data connection to automated, AI-enhanced reporting using Google's premier BI tool.

At Big Data Labs, located in Randburg, Gauteng, we provide hands-on training that bridges the gap between complex data sources and executive-ready dashboards. This course prepares you to navigate the Looker ecosystem, leverage advanced data blending, and utilize the latest 2026 AI Data Agents to drive business intelligence.

Target Audience

This course is designed for professionals who need to communicate data clearly and efficiently, including:

Marketing Professionals

Marketers needing to aggregate data from Google Ads, Meta, and GA4 into a single, automated source of truth.

Data & BI Analysts

Analysts looking to master advanced calculated fields, data blending, and high-performance BigQuery integration.

Business Managers

Decision-makers who want to build their own self-service dashboards without waiting on IT departments.

AI Early Adopters

Anyone eager to integrate AI Data Agents and conversational analytics into their daily reporting workflow.

Prerequisite Skills

While Looker Studio is user-friendly, the following foundations will help you maximize the course value:

  • Spreadsheet Literacy: Basic comfort with Google Sheets or Excel (sorting, filtering, and basic formulas).
  • Data Curiosity: An understanding of what KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) matter to your specific industry.
  • Google Ecosystem Awareness: A Google account and general familiarity with tools like Drive or GA4.

What You Will Learn

Upon completion of Looker Studio Unlocked, you will be able to:

  • Connect Any Data: Deploy native and partner connectors to pull data from 800+ sources.
  • Transform with Logic: Create complex calculated fields and regex-based data cleaning.
  • Master Blending: Join disparate datasets (e.g., Sales vs. Spend) using advanced join configurations.
  • Design for Impact: Build "Pixel Perfect" dashboards with responsive layouts for mobile and desktop.
  • Leverage AI: Implement AI Data Agents to provide natural language summaries for your viewers.
  • Govern & Share: Manage workspace permissions and schedule automated report delivery.

Course Outline: Looker Studio Unlocked

This curriculum is built to move from technical setup to creative execution, ensuring a holistic understanding of the BI lifecycle.

Module 1: The Foundation & Connectivity (20%)

  • Introduction to the 2026 Looker Ecosystem: Pro vs. Free versions.
  • Connecting to the "Big Three": Google Sheets, GA4, and BigQuery.
  • Understanding Data schemas: Dimensions, Metrics, and Aggregations.
  • Lab: Building your first live-connected "Quick Start" report.

Module 2: Advanced Data Modeling (25%)

  • Calculated Fields: CASE statements, IF/THEN logic, and Date arithmetic.
  • Data Blending deep dive: Join keys, operator types, and avoid common pitfalls.
  • Filtering at Scale: Using Parameters to create dynamic "What-If" scenarios.
  • Lab: Blending Marketing Spend with CRM Revenue data.

Module 3: UX, Design & Interactivity (30%)

  • Designing for the User: Layout grids, navigation menus, and branding.
  • Interactive Controls: Cross-filtering, drill-downs, and optional metrics.
  • Visualizing Geospatial data: Advanced Maps and heatmaps.
  • Lab: Constructing a multi-page, interactive Executive Overview.

Module 4: The AI Frontier & Governance (25%)

  • AI Data Agents: Enabling conversational queries for end-users.
  • Automated Insights: Using Google's ML to detect anomalies in your data.
  • Enterprise Security: Row-level security and Team Workspace management.
  • Lab: Implementing a "Chat with your Data" feature in your dashboard.