The switch to Excel 2007 from older versions does not need to be difficult. If you understand the potential problems, fewer issues will arise.
Unlike other versions of Excel, there are sufficient changes in the most recent version that it is worth enrolling in an advanced Excel training for Excel 2007, even if you already are familiar with previous versions of the application. Even with coaching, there are two big and a few small problems ahead.
New File Format
Excel 2007 features a new file format that is tougher, permits gigantic workbooks, and works better with a wide selection of software. You can hear all about it in Microsoft Excel training. However, using the old file format isn’t completely urgent since the remainder of the world is maybe still using older versions of Excel.
To tell Excel 2007 to save in the older format, click the Office button, Excel Options, Save, then under “Save files in this format” select “Excel 97-2003 Workbook (*.xls)”. Users of older versions can download a Microsoft patch that allows them to open 2007 workbooks, but typically it is simpler if everyone simply sticks to the old format.
There is one problem with this, but then you already expected that.. Microsoft has made some wierd changes that can create compatibility problems. For instance, they have changed the default palette. If you shade a cell with light grey in Excel 2007 then attempt to save it as an .xls file, you’ll get a compatibility caution. Why? Because Excel 2007 light grey is a touch different to the light gray used in other versions of Excel.
The answer to this is to create a custom palette that comprises the original colours from Excel. No such palette exists in Excel 2007 so you’ll have to create it yourself.
The Ribbon
If you’ve been studying Excel, you have doubtless heard mixed reviews about the ribbon. It’s different – but is it better? It is dependent on who you ask, but it’s not hard to become used to. Experienced Excel users actually seem to have the simplest time getting comfortable with it. The casual users have the most problems.
One saving grace is that all the old menu commands work from the keyboard. So if you were given used to using Alt-I, R to select “Insert Row” from the menu, that still works. This is one area where advanced Excel training can help. It can take time to find out where things have been placed, particularly for features you used only occasionally.
In addition to these serious features, there are lots of little things that have changed. New tools have been added as well and advanced Excel training can introduce you to a large number of features to make your spreadsheets better.
For more information, please see our website: Advanced Excel Training