Spreadsheet Detective
Overview
It is notoriously difficult to confirm that a spreadsheet is calculating results in the way that was intended while undetected errors have caused large financial losses and expensive litigation. Spreadsheet Detective will perform an analysis of any worksheet and highlight inconsistencies and potential errors in formulas.
Generate graphical annotations that can:-
- Show how formulas have been copied throughout a workbook.
- Clarify cryptic "A1" references using English AutoNames
- Easily follow complex Precedent/Dependent relationships.
- Perform advanced inter-worksheet data flow analysis for complex models.
- Highlight bad sensitivity relationships.
- Assist with the understanding and manipulation of Named Ranges.
In combination these clarify the structure of complex models
Basic features
Audit Excel Formulas with Shading
Workbook cells are color code based on any potential problem identified to provide a quick visual overview of formula issues that may result incorrect calculations.
Create a report of all formulas in a spreadsheet. Autonames can be used to make formulas more intelligible.
Full annotations draws graphics on the workbook to visually describe how formulas have been copied throughout a sheet. Incorrect or incomplete copying of formulas in a workbook is a major cause of calculation errors.
Advanced features
The worksheet data flow report provides a powerful summary of complex spreadsheets.
While the AutoName facilities reduce the need for Named Ranges, they are still useful for commonly referenced fields. Excel makes it easy to create Named Ranges, but provides very little assistance with changing their definitions as the structure of a model changes
The Sensitivity Report shows how sensitive a selected output value is to all the input values. The report is produced by replacing each constant or formula with a constant that is10% (say) larger than its current value. The difference in the output value is then recorded in the corresponding cell in the report before the original value or formula is replaced and next cell selected.
For more information visit the Spreadsheet Detective web site.
