FWD Resources
The Data Analytics Toolbox
Welcome to the Data Analytics Toolbox. Here you will find overviews and how-to articles on topics geared towards helping you become a better data analyst. This includes reviews of tools, guides, and more.
Where to find free Canadian government datasets
Federal, provincial, and municipal governments, and government agencies publish an enormous amount of publicly available data. The challenge is knowing where to look. Learn about the the most important open data portals in Canada.
7 Common Data File Types Every Data Analyst Should Know (and How to Open Them)
Learn the seven most common data file types every new data analyst should know — including CSV, Excel, JSON, Parquet, SQL, XML, and Feather — and how to open and work with each format.
Exploratory vs. Explanatory Charts: What’s the Difference?
Master the art of data visuals—learn when to explore insights and when to present them plainly with polished, audience-ready charts.
Dimension Tables vs. Fact Tables: A Practical Guide for Aspiring Data Analysts
Build better spreadsheets and dashboards. Learn how dimension and fact tables structure your data clearly—even in Google Sheets or Excel.