Reducing the Risk of Spreadsheet Usage - a Case Study

TL;DR

This paper presents a case study on reducing risks in routine spreadsheet usage by deploying web-based applications that improve accuracy, security, and efficiency for end-users.

Contribution

It introduces a solution that enables rapid development of web-based apps linked to spreadsheets, minimizing manual errors and enhancing control during routine tasks.

Findings

Improved accuracy in data entry and editing.

Enhanced version control and security.

Reduced manual effort for end-users.

Abstract

The frequency with which spreadsheets are used and the associated risk is well known. Many tools and techniques have been developed which help reduce risks associate with creating and maintaining spreadsheet. However, little consideration has been given to reducing the risks of routine usage by the "consumers" - for example when entering and editing data. EASA's solution, available commercially, ensures that any routine process involving spreadsheets can be executed rapidly and without errors by the end-users, often with a significant reduction in manual effort. Specifically, the technology enables the rapid creation and deployment of web-based applications, connected to one or more centralized spreadsheets; this ensures version control, easy and error free usage, and security of intellectual property contained in spreadsheets.