Data is at the heart of today's development agenda. The rapid expansion of digital technologies, big data, and artificial intelligence is reshaping how organizations design, implement, and evaluate programmes and policies. Yet, data alone is not enough - the true challenge lies in transforming complex information into knowledge, insights, and stories that inspire action. This course prepares development professionals to navigate this evolving landscape. It provides a future-oriented learning journey that combines data foundations, analytics methods, and visualization techniques with the art of data storytelling. Participants will gain hands-on experience in collecting and analysing qualitative and quantitative data, designing impactful dashboards, and using evidence to inform strategies, communicate with stakeholders, and create measurable impact. Tailored for programme and project managers, monitoring and evaluation officers, technical specialists, researchers, and professionals across the development sector, the course emphasizes practical application and future readiness. From understanding the development data ecosystem to exploring the role of big data and AI, learners will build the capacity to translate data into decisions, and decisions into sustainable change. By the end of the course, participants will not only master essential data skills but also develop the ability to tell the story behind the numbers - a critical competence for shaping policies, strengthening organizations, and advancing development in a fast-changing world.