Establishing and Measuring Standard Spreadsheet Practices for End-Users

TL;DR

This paper reviews and categorizes common spreadsheet practices using Bloom's Taxonomy, evaluates measurement items for training validation, and discusses how standardization can reduce risks and improve productivity.

Contribution

It introduces a framework for categorizing spreadsheet practices and assesses measurement tools for training and certification validation.

Findings

Categorized spreadsheet practices using Bloom's Taxonomy.

Evaluated effectiveness of test questions in training validation.

Discussed benefits of standard practices for risk reduction and productivity.

Abstract

This paper offers a brief review of cognitive verbs typically used in the literature to describe standard spreadsheet practices. The verbs identified are then categorised in terms of Bloom's Taxonomy of Hierarchical Levels, and then rated and arranged to distinguish some of their qualities and characteristics. Some measurement items are then evaluated to see how well computerised test question items validate or reinforce training or certification. The paper considers how establishing standard practices in spreadsheet training and certification can help reduce some of the risks associated with spreadsheets, and help promote productivity.