In addition to database design, we also receive requests to help clarify and organise raw data stored in Microsoft Excel. Excel is a popular and very powerful data manipulation tool used by many businesses, but sometimes it becomes cumbersome and overloaded with so much raw data that it becomes confusing to work with.
We can tailor your Excel workbook, helping you organise and make sense of your raw data. Here are a few examples of how we can do that:
Set up PivotTables
PivotTables are an interactive way of effectively summarizing and presenting data. Using a PivotTable, you can create multi-dimensional views from large amounts of data, allowing you to extract meaningful information to help guide you in your business decisions.
Set up Charts
Charts are an effective way of graphically displaying data over time.
While some people can instantly see patterns when looking at numbers, most of us find it easier to understand a graphical representation of numbers.
So instead of showing your raw data in a presentation, rather convert the figures to a chart, making it easier for others to see patterns and interpret trends.
Implement Automation Routines (Macros and VBA)
Macros allow you to automate a task or set of tasks that you perform repeatedly. A macro is a recording of a series of commands that can be replayed whenever you need to perform the task.
Macros can be further tailored to perform much more complex routines. This is done by creating code in Visual Basic for Applications (VBA). VBA is the coding language that resides behind all Microsoft Office programs, and it allows users to take the program’s abilities to the next level.
Build User Forms for Data Entry
Excel’s grid-like interface is not always the most user-friendly way of entering lots of data. Instead, you can create user forms that allow users to enter data into one or more fields.
User forms are particularly powerful when combined with VBA.
Contact Manta Projects to find out how we can help you work more effectively with your Excel-based raw data.