What Type of Activities Should Be Done in a Spreadsheet Program?

Spreadsheet programs are computer applications that are based upon the traditional paper grid of rows and columns used by accountants. Spreadsheets use formulas to organize and automate the calculation of data.

Financial Activities

Spreadsheets are primarily used to automate the calculation of numerical data. Budgets, income statements, balance sheets and expense reports are examples of activities that can be done with spreadsheet software.

Statistical Activities

Spreadsheets have built-in formulas that can assist with statistical-analysis calculations including minimum, maximum and average values. Operations management, economic analysis and research are examples of activities that can be performed efficiently with spreadsheets.

Data Management Activities

Spreadsheets can be used to organize and report on non-financial data similar to a database program. Spreadsheets have formulas and functions to automate the searching, sorting, filtering and reporting of text-based information. Sales records, inventory, customer contacts and address lists are examples of applications that can also be done with spreadsheet programs.

References

• "Does IT Matter?"; Nicholas Carr; 2004

Resources

• Free Web Based Spreadsheets: Google Docs