The world of Excel is no stranger to evolution. For decades, it has empowered users to perform tasks ranging from simple data entry to complex financial modelling. One of the most transformative moments in this journey was the introduction of Power Query. With it, we gained more than just a new tool–we were introduced to concepts that elevated Excel’s capabilities, such as data models, data flow, and streamlined data importing.
Power Query: The Foundation of a New Excel Era.
When Power Query hit the scene, it didn’t just bring in new technical features; it brought new ideas to the forefront of the Excel community’s consciousness. While seasoned enterprise users were already familiar with the concepts behind data models and flow, Power Query made these accessible to the individual Excel user. This expansion of ideas–bringing enterprise-level data processing into the hands of solo users–created a tidal wave of success. It captured the imagination of Excel enthusiasts and corporate users alike, opening doors to new ways of working with data.
However, as with any powerful tool, Power Query has also created complexity. The Jackson Pollock-esque data chaos it can generate is undeniable, especially when applied without structure. Yet, this chaotic potential presents us with an incredible opportunity: the chance to go beyond Power Query.
Beyond Power Query: A Massive Opportunity.
The world has moved on since the early days of Power Query, and so has Excel. We now operate in a cloud-driven environment, where collaboration, integration, and rapid deployment are paramount. This shift offers Excel users a tremendous opportunity: the chance to transform the complexity into smooth, scalable, and efficient solutions. And the best part? You don’t need to wait for the next big software release. You can start this transformation now, today, this very afternoon.
Unlike other tools in the Power Platform ecosystem–like Power Automate, Power Apps, or even enterprise-level solutions like Tableau, QlikView, or SAP–Excel, when combined with the capabilities of Power Query and beyond, offers a level of flexibility, simplicity, and speed that no other platform can match. It’s a secret weapon in the arsenal of any consultant or advanced Excel user.
Real Results: Power Query in Action.
In my own work, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of moving beyond Power Query. My first foray into this new realm was with a short-term temp job, which ended up evolving into a seven-figure consulting project. What started as a relatively small task ballooned into a $1.4 million opportunity–simply because we leveraged Excel, Power Query, and the principles that go beyond it to remove complexity and deliver results.
Another example involved a project featured in Wired Magazine. I was asked how we achieved such astronomical results–hundreds of thousands of pounds in value from just a few seemingly simple spreadsheets. The answer? We went beyond the spreadsheet. By stripping out unnecessary complexity and focusing on delivering high-value, architected solutions, we opened doors to opportunities far greater than any single tool could provide.
Why Consultants Should Care.
For Excel power users and consultants, understanding how to move beyond Power Query is more than just a technical advantage–it’s a career-defining opportunity. You’re not just an “Excel guy” anymore. By mastering this approach, you’re positioning yourself at the intersection of IT, business intelligence, and high-value consulting.
You can now deliver results that go far beyond what a traditional IT department or cloud service can achieve. And with that comes recognition, responsibility, and significantly higher pay. Consultants who can master this approach are invaluable, not only to individual departments but across entire organizations. When you have the capability to implement business leaders’ visions quickly, efficiently, and effectively, you become an irreplaceable asset.
The Key is in the Architecture.
It’s essential to understand that going beyond Power Query isn’t about writing tons of complex code. Quite the opposite–it’s about how you use Excel, Power Query, and other tools in concert to architect solutions. It’s not about the technology itself, but how you structure and deploy it to remove barriers and unlock the potential of your data.
That’s why this isn’t just about tech. It’s about management choices, visionary thinking, and understanding that the Excel tools we have today are more powerful than ever before. It’s about getting the most out of these tools without overwhelming users with complexity or unnecessary coding.
Your Opportunity Awaits.
The world of Excel has never been more exciting. As a consultant or advanced user, you now have a unique opportunity to leverage the full potential of Power Query–and go beyond it. Those who understand this landscape will find themselves at the forefront of a new era in business intelligence and data management.
So, the next time you’re asked to clean up a data mess or deliver insights from a tangled web of spreadsheets, remember: You have the power to turn a Jackson Pollock-style data chaos into a streamlined, high-value solution. And by doing so, you’re not just solving today’s problem; you’re opening doors to tomorrow’s opportunities.
You were listening to a podcast by Hiran de Silva. Red by Bill.
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