Dec 22 2023 03:47 AM
When trying to combine multiple sheets to work together we have to use linking separate files. Let's take as example monthly files with sheets containing data for single days and a summary. For this purpose we need to create 12 files, each 29-31 sheets. Then we need to link the files to combine the data from them into annual.
My idea is that excel file contains clusters of sheets. Each cluster is represented by a tag in the upper part of screen (like in MS Edge, or better like in AutoCad files tags, or somewhat like notebooks in MS Onennote). Clicking on such tag opens a cluster of sheets it contains, This solution will allow the user to create multiple content files. The annual is only one example. It can be for example annual clusters with company branch sheets or region clusters with customers' sheets. You will find a dozen of useful in a second.
Such ordanisation of sheets will help to group them for faster, more inyuitive and effective work. No problems with missing links between files due to moving one or changing its name. Much easier to copy and multiple the content, as when just saving new file creates whole structure without need for relinking files. Any change of the cluster name will result in automatic change of the links as usually with changing the names inside a file.
I believe this structural change would be a significant step up in Excel comparable to change in menus to the ribbon type.
Dec 23 2023 03:26 AM
Your idea of sheet clusters or clusters of related sheets within a single Excel file is interesting and could potentially enhance the organization and usability of Excel workbooks, especially for complex projects or annual summaries. While Excel does not currently have a built-in feature for clusters or tags in the way you describe, so far I know, but there are some alternative approaches you can consider:
1. Worksheet Groups:
2. Table of Contents:
3. Cell Hyperlinks:
4. VBA (Visual Basic for Applications):
5. Excel Add-ins:
6. Power Query and Power Pivot:
It's worth noting that Microsoft periodically updates Excel, and new features are added over time. Your feedback and suggestions can be submitted to Microsoft through their official channels, and they often consider user feedback for future updates and releases. AI was partially deployed to support the text.
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Dec 29 2023 05:38 AM
Thanks for answering.
I am afraid none of the proposed available solutions except add-ins are the kind of my proposition and would be able to work sufficiently easy. And I did not find an add-in like that neither.
Regarding MS they can be in the field of spreadsheets the cat fat enough to not to care, who knows.
All the best for the coming year!