Department of Technology

TECH 394 - Tech Computer Applications

Summer 2004

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Applications

Jim Walkenbach defines a spreadsheet application as:

A spreadsheet file (or a group of related files) designed so that someone other than the developer can perform useful work without extensive training.

This could be a good definition for applications designed in Word, Excel, or Access.  Two key things stand out:

  1. It has to function for someone other than the developer.

  2. The user must find it useful without a lot of training.

Walkenbach gives a good list of what he thinks makes a good design:

  • Enables user to perform tasks they couldn't do otherwise.

  • Provides an appropriate solution to the problem.

  • Does what its supposed to do.

  • Produces accurate results and is bug-free.

  • Performs its job using appropriate, efficient methods.

  • Traps errors and helps users correct them.

  • Does not allow the user to delete or modify important components.

  • Offers the user a clear, consistent user interface.

  • Formulas and macros are well-documented

  • Designed so other developers can make simple modifications easily.

  • Easily accessible help system.

  • Portable design - runs on any machine with the right software.

He offers these steps for developing applications:

  • Determine the needs of the user.

    • Ask the user for specifics - what inputs, what outputs?

    • Offer what you think they need - they'll correct you.

    • Talk to the end user.

    • Find out what they do now.

    • Watch out for "needs" that contain solutions.

  • Plan applications that meet those needs.

    • Structure - worksheets, modules, data files

    • Formulas or VBA?

    • Delivery - will you give the user modules?  Add-ins? Workbooks?

    • Stand alone or networked?

    • Version of Excel

    • Error handling

  • Determine the most appropriate user interface.

    • Spreadsheet template?

    • Custom forms?

    • Standard Dialog Boxes?

  • Create the spreadsheet, formulas, interface, and macros.

  • Test and Debug.

  • Make it bulletproof.

    • Lock important cells

    • Hide sheets

    • Make the file Read-only

    • Convert the file to an Add-in

  • Make it aesthetically pleasing and intuitive.

    • Background, text colors

    • Tab stops - flow of information

    • Option buttons, check boxes

    • Grid lines

  • Document your work.

  • Create user documentation and help files.

    • Assume a level of competence
    • Walk the user through the operation
    • Test with someone who doesn't know the program
    • Lay out documentation to let the user jump ahead
    • Address potenetial errors
    • Help files need to be brief, clear, helpful

  • Distribute it to the user.

  • Update when necessary.