Authors
Peter A. O'Donnell
Abstract
The spreadsheet is one of the most commonly used personal computer applications. Many studies have shown that a very high percentage of spreadsheet models contain serious errors.
The use of influence diagrams, which are a visual representation of the relationships among the variables in a problem, to plan the development of a spreadsheet model may reduce the likelihood of the spreadsheet model containing an error.
This paper describes an experimental study that tests whether the use of influence diagrams improves spreadsheet modelling practice.
The results of the study suggests that influence diagrams do help users to better understand problems, and as a result reduce the likelihood of omitting important variables from spreadsheet models.
Sample
This figure shows a typical simple spreadsheet model (for break-even/profit analysis) and its representation as an influence diagram.
The diagram specifies what variables are to be represented in the model. Each variable shown on the influence diagram model must be represented by a cell in the spreadsheet. The directed arcs of the influence diagram specify which variables are involved in which spreadsheet formula.
Publication
2001, Australasian Journal of Information Systems, Volume 9, Number 1, September, pages 79-91
Full article
The use of influence diagrams in the design of spreadsheet models
