While custom contextual tabs in Excel Add-ins already allow developers to move functionality from the main ribbon to a contextual tab, the inability to programmatically open these tabs creates usability challenges.
For instance, when specific tables or components with ad-hoc functionality are inserted and selected in a spreadsheet, a custom contextual tab can display the related commands. However, unlike native Excel contextual tabs that open automatically, custom tabs from Add-ins only appear in the ribbon but require users to manually navigate to them. This behavior risks the functionality going unnoticed, reducing adoption and creating confusion for users who may not find the relocated commands.
We propose adding a method in the Office.js API for Excel to programmatically activate custom contextual tabs when triggered. This feature would improve usability by ensuring users are immediately aware of and directed to the appropriate tools, enhancing discoverability and adoption of new or relocated functionality.