In an earlier article I mentioned that there are three principle ways to escape Excel hell.
The first is to make better use of the version you have, or upgrade to Excel 2010.
The second is to replace it with a database or specialist software such as budgeting/reporting.
The third is to use add-ins or integration. Looking at add-ins, there are several that are worth evaluating:
- For dashboards: Excel gauges from Pendragon Systems, as in the graphic above. Click here for this example and a free trial.
- For graphics: Sparklines for Excel (SfE)
- For business intelligence – analysis and reporting: PowerOLAP 9 using Excel as a front end, from BIOLAP in the UK
- For statutory accounts production: VT Final Accounts
If anyone has hands-on experience of any of these tools, good or painful, please comment. Likewise if there are any other favourites or best-to-avoids! Suppliers are equally welcome to comment.
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A useful reminder to keep up-to-date with Excel. I use it a lot and love its power and depth, but know I'm not exploiting its full potential.
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