Forum Discussion

Mikulof's avatar
Mikulof
Copper Contributor
Jan 08, 2025

Forms update

I use MS Forms for collecting data to excel file and frequently make corrections to typos and wrong entries.

If I now update my existing Forms as instructed, will the corrections/alterations get overwritten by faulty data from the Forms probably still saved in the cloud. I would prefer to continue using these Forms, but I cannot risk loosing the corrections that I have made during longer period.

I have made Backups but rebuilding my Forms and data model will cause me a lot of extra work.

 

Please advice asap.

 

Mikulof

  

data loss prevention
microsoft forms

1 Reply

  • Kidd_Ip's avatar
    Kidd_Ip
    MVP
    Feb 24, 2025

    When you update your MS Forms, the data collected in the Forms is stored on Cloud and linked to your Excel file. If you make changes to the Form itself, it should not overwrite the existing data in your Excel file. However, if you re-upload or re-import the Form, there is a risk that the data might get overwritten.

    To avoid losing your corrections:

    1. Backup Your Data: Before making any updates, ensure you have a backup of your Excel file with all the corrections.
    2. Export Data Regularly: Regularly export the data from MS Forms to Excel to keep a local copy of all responses.
    3. Use Version Control: If possible, use version control for your Excel file to keep track of changes and revert to previous versions if needed.
    4. Test Updates on a Copy: Before applying updates to your main Form, test them on a copy of the Form to ensure that no data is lost.

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