There is no simple answer to this question, but any ideas or guidelines would be welcome.
I have a complex spreadsheet which is including more & more database functions, eg vlookup, index, match etc etc. and getting messy (though it works)
At what point do I give up & switch to a database?
It involves a steep learning curve & a lot of money.
Any advice?
I have no advice, I'm just another guy who is wondering the same thing. The only advice I have is to change your header to something more eye catching. Like:
"When to use a Database and when to use Spreadsheets?
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When the steep learning curve is no longer considered a negative and the cost is considered worth the gain, switch to a database. Excel, as fabulous as it is, vs a database is like a high end Lexus vs a Ferrari. There is no comparison in terms of performance and features.
Also, when the need to have multiple people at once, even 100s, accessing that same data becomes important, a database becomes unavoidable. Sharing Excel workbooks isn't even in the same league.
Having said that, some people's Excel-based databases accidentally get overly complex by nature of the way they are laid out. Having a fresh set of eyes look over your existing tool may garner some suggestions for simplifying and improving performance.
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Hi,
I agree with JBeaucaire.
Are you able to attach a copy of your file?
By looking at your file the experts on the forum may be able to advise you better.
Regards
peterrc
I can't attach the file sorry it has confidential data.
I think Jbeaucaire makes the point though, this is just a private project. I will persevere with Excel, (and with your help!)
Thanks
Do you also use Pivot Table to analyse the data?more & more database functions, eg vlookup, index, match etc etc. and getting messy
Notice my main language is not English.
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I have never needed to, and actually don't know what it is, sorry.
How do you know you never needed it, since you don't know what it isI have never needed to, and actually don't know what it is, sorry.
Pivot table is a powerfull instrument to analyse data.
Search on pivot table and you find a lot of hits.
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