Building a Data Visualization and Decision Support System for Hippoobuy's Purchasing Agency Using Spreadsheets
2025-04-26
Introduction
In the era of big data, leveraging data visualization and analytics is essential for modern businesses. This article explores how Hippoobuy, a purchasing agency platform, can utilize spreadsheet-based tools to transform raw business data into interactive dashboards, algorithmic insights, and decision frameworks to optimize operations.
Data Infrastructure Foundation
Begin by creating structured data tables
Data Visualization Implementation
Key Performance Indicator Dashboards
-
Profit Heatmaps:Geospatial coloring of purchasing agent performance by region using
=QUERY() -
Trend Arrows:
30/60/90-day moving average charts comparing product category demand with
=SPARKLINE()
Interactive Elements
Build dropdown-controlled dashboards using:
=FILTER()- Dynamic pie charts showing profit composition breakdowns
- Slicer-controlled pivot tables for customer cohort analysis
[Sample dashboard with: left sidebar filters, center profit trend combosharts, right supplier performance gauges]
Decision-Aiding Models
| Model | Implementation | Decision Application |
|---|---|---|
| Price Elasticity Calculator | Regression analysis via =LINEST() |
Agent commission adjustments |
| Inventory Scenario Planner | Data table what-if analysis | Pre-holiday purchasing volumes |
Implement algorithmic alerts=IFS()
// Sample alert rule for supplier monitoring =IF(AND(Orders!B2 1000, Supplier!D2 < 0.8), "⚠️ Review supplier performance", "")
Operational Integration
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