Spreadsheet Models for Managers


Getting Access to Spreadsheet Models for Managers


ISpreadsheet Models for Managersf you use Excel to model businesses, business processes, or business transactions, this course will change your life. You'll learn how to create tools for yourself that will amaze even you. Unrestricted use of this material is available in two ways.

As a stand-alone Web site
It resides on your computer, and you can use it anywhere. No need for Internet access.
At this Web site
If you have access to the Internet whenever you want to view this material, you can purchase on-line access. Unlimited usage. I'm constantly making improvements and you'll get them as soon as they're available.

To Order On Line

Order "Spreadsheet Models for Managers, on-line edition, one month" by credit card, for USD 69.95 each, using our secure server, and receive download instructions by return email.
Or order via Google Checkout.
Order "Spreadsheet Models for Managers, on-line edition, three months" by credit card, for USD 199.00 each, using our secure server, and receive download instructions by return email.
Or order via Google Checkout.
Order "Spreadsheet Models for Managers, downloadable hyperbook edition" by credit card, for USD 199.00 each, using our secure server, and receive download instructions by return email.
Or order via Google Checkout.

To Order by Mail

Make your check payable to Chaco Canyon Consulting, for the amount indicated:
  • For the download: USD 199.00
  • For access online for three months: USD 199.00
  • For access online for one month: USD 69.95
And send it to:
Chaco Canyon Consulting
700 Huron Avenue, Suite 11J
Cambridge, MA 02138

To use the course software you'll need some other applications, which you very probably already have. By placing your order, you're confirming that you have the software you need, as described on this site.

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Spreadsheet Models for Managers


Named Parameters 1/24
Session Links

  • Naming parameters helps you in several ways. Naming makes models:
    • More useful — easier to change
    • Cheaper to build and modify
    • More reliable — more internal consistency
    • More maintainable, more readable
    • Easier for others to understand
    • More error-free
  • Common error in spreadsheet modeling — "parameter sprinkling"
    • Hard-wired numbers aren't distinguishable
    • You have to chase all over if you want to change the value
  • One form of parameterization: cell reference
  • Collect all the parameter cells for a given sheet into one block — the parameter block
  • You can even name the parameter block

Demonstration

Parameter sprinkling is perhaps the most common error in spreadsheet model design, and is therefore the most probable cause of incorrect projections.

Collecting all named parameters into a single place on a single worksheet is good practice, when it's possible. It reduces maintenance costs and makes your models much easier to use. But you can't always do it. Sometimes you want to use the same name on each of a set of similar worksheets. For example, you might want to use the name "Quota" on each of the regional sales division's worksheets. In this case, you can define a parameter block on each affected sheet.

For more about my spreadsheet consulting and training services, visit SpreadsheetAce.com.

Last Modified: Wednesday, 22-Oct-2008 05:31:20 EDT

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Sign Up for the On Line Version of This Course
With dozens of solved problems and special course tools, this course can dramatically increase your spreadsheet skills. For just USD 199.00 you receive three months of access with unlimited email support. Learn more about improving your spreadsheet sophistication and effectiveness.
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Get the Hyperbook Edition of This Course
Identical to the edition you're viewing, but with dozens of solved problems and special course tools, and it stands alone — no Internet connection required. For just USD 199.00, it includes three months of unlimited email support. Learn more about improving your spreadsheet sophistication and effectiveness.
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