Authors
Robert Kee
Abstract
Spreadsheet templates typically are developed by managers who have little knowledge of programming standards or the consequences of not applying them.
Reliable spreadsheet software begins with a standard format for developing spreadsheet applications. Such a format forces programmers to develop their applications within a logical framework that is designed to simplify spreadsheet construction and enhance reliability.
Seldom will a developer's original template be free of logic and other errors; thus, testing is a crucial step in identifying and correcting the errors before a template is released. The primary benefit of testing is the enhancement of the software's reliability.
The most misunderstood and least applied phase of spreadsheet development is documentation, which helps to maintain the capability of solving repetitive problems. Without adequate documentation, it is often easier to develop a new template than to review another program. The savings generated from not documenting a template are usually more than offset by future operating and maintenance costs.
Sample
The introduction section - a key part of the spreadsheet documentation - is used to describe the spreadsheet.
This information helps users to identify a template, the task(s) for which it was designed, and the instructions necessary for its use.
Publication
1988, CMA Magazine, Volume 62, number 3, April, pages 55-60
Full article
Not available
