Spreadsheet Design—A 3 Project Methodology

• In Event: Spreadsheets in AIS Education

Abstract

Although spreadsheet programs provide powerful analytical tools for business, they are often created and used by people with minimal programming experience. Consequently, users can often develop spreadsheets containing critical errors, which, in turn, can cause significant losses for their businesses. Errors can be reduced by learning and employing good spreadsheet design techniques. Good spreadsheet design also makes it easier to update and continue to use a spreadsheet over time. We detail a project where students complete three spreadsheet projects in ascending order of difficulty. By the time, students have completed these assignments, they will have learned good spreadsheet design as well as improved their basic Excel skills.

Author

• Cynthia Frownfelter-Lohrke, Samford University