Forum Discussion

BartBpl's avatar
BartBpl
Copper Contributor
Feb 19, 2024
Solved

Controlled and Commented Changes in Excel Spreadsheet

Hello,

I am currently searching for a solution or method that would enable me to implement advanced change control in an Excel spreadsheet. My requirements are quite specific, and so far, I haven't found a built-in feature in Excel or an external add-on that fully satisfies them. Here's what I need:

  1. Change Control: I want every change made in the sheet to be recorded in a way that prevents users from unauthorized disabling. All changes should be tracked without the possibility for users to circumvent this mechanism.

  2. Commenting on Changes: Every change in the sheet should require the user to add a comment explaining the reason for the change. This is crucial for auditing and tracking the change history.

  3. Visibility and Accessibility of Change History: I need easy access to the history of changes, including who made the change, when it was made, what the previous value was, and what comment was added.

I realize that the standard change tracking features in Excel do not offer all the functionalities I require, especially regarding the requirement for comments on each change and constant change control. I have considered using VBA or external add-ons, but I would prefer to avoid overly complicated or unconventional solutions that might be difficult to maintain.

Has anyone encountered a similar challenge and found an effective solution? Are there any tools or add-ons that could meet these requirements? Any help or pointers would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you in advance for any suggestions and assistance.

  • BartBpl I suggest to google for "excel audit trail software", it should get you a relevant list of software that handles this kind of thing.

  • JKPieterse's avatar
    JKPieterse
    Silver Contributor
    I wouldn't know any that offers what you are requesting. But it isn't going to be a simple tool to build!
    • BartBpl's avatar
      BartBpl
      Copper Contributor

      Thanks for your comment. At least, I need to make sure that nobody is able to turn off the changes tracking. Honestly speaking, I am surprised it's so challenging 😉 

      • JKPieterse's avatar
        JKPieterse
        Silver Contributor

        BartBpl The default security settings prescribe that the user will always have to consent to macro's or other code running against the file. Even if you have the code in an Office-js add-in they will have to consent the add-in being installed.

Resources