Authors
Simon Murphy
Abstract
This management paper looks at the real world issues faced by practitioners managing spreadsheets through the production phase of their life cycle.
It draws on the commercial experience of several developers working with large corporations, either as employees or consultants or contractors. It provides commercial examples of some of the practicalities involved with spreadsheet use around the enterprise.
Sample
60% of large companies feel 'Spreadsheet Hell' describes their reliance on spreadsheets either completely or fairly well.
Ideally a program of spreadsheet management would include:
- Policies on when to use, and when not to use, spreadsheets.
- Procedures for safe and effective development of valuable spreadsheets.
- Features to use and those to avoid, with justifications.
- Adequate training and coaching appropriate to job role.
- Procedures and policies for managing the modification of live systems.
- Policies for safely archiving retired spreadsheets.
- Full consideration of all aspects of the systems life cycle.
Publication
2007, EuSpRIG
