There are two types of companies - those that recycle unkempt spreadsheets for new projects and those that deploy crisp templates. What difference does it make?
Excel templates restrain chaos
Using well-crafted spreadsheet templates to generate new workbooks is a way of organising work. Having such files prepared for use makes the expectation apparent. Their users will navigate through constrained complexity and will be able to follow specific rules.
Spreadsheet templates limit disruptions
Without Excel templates, every task handover has to be followed by an introduction to the file. Those conversations consume immense amounts of time and often happen on Friday evenings. Having parent files at hand solves that.
Standarisation enables comparison
Comparison of spreadsheet work acts for the benefit of the company and employees alike. It assures that the know-how is enriched every time the template is used, and the same mistakes are not made. Those that can use file more efficiently may improve the underlying template, and each new iteration will be more aligned with the company's business goals.
Accurate templates signalise professionalism
Well-crafted and perhaps branded files show new employees and clients that the company has full control over their analytical workloads. That creates trust in the analytical domain and encourages long-lasting professional relationships.
Templates promote high standards
Without well-defined criteria for outputs and work in Excel, every output is mainly the product of individual effort. To assure that every business intelligence report or client data dashboard maintains the same quality, standardisation is a must.
You probably already use templates
Most businesses require office employees use of various Excel templates. For instance, many Human Resource Jobs require using standardised workbooks to log hours temporary employees worked or to summarise KPIs. It is best to actively shape and manage standards for those workbooks instead of simply recycling the files from the previous months every time.
Summary
Templates save time and organise repetitive spreadsheet tasks. They make them more manageable and help to accumulate knowledge. If unstructured spreadsheets slow down your colleagues, let our Excel consultants know, and we will help you choose the best solution.
Comments