Spreadsheets are Sexy!
I was
recently asked to advise a committee on what computer skills were most relevant
to start-up and small business owners. There were smiles all round as I ran
through the benefits of understanding social media platforms and related
strategies, nods of agreement and acknowledgement as we discussed email
management, electronic business cards and video conferencing. But, when I
mentioned spreadsheets, faces twisted as though I’d delivered an almost fatal
stab to the heart, and the project manager exclaimed ‘Oh no, not spreadsheets, they’re just not sexy’!
How I hope
business owners are more enlightened to the benefits of spreadsheets. Throughout
the entire process of setting up and running a business my
reliance on spreadsheets, has been up there with my need for oxygen.
It started with spreadsheets for a personal budget, set up costs and creating an excel database
of potential clients. Once up and running excel templates produced quotes and
invoices.
Spreadsheet files now record, income,
costs and expenses, including travel and mileage and are all automated to
produce the required totals for each annual tax return. Effective use of
spreadsheets allows me to avoid the need and expense of an accountant.
Spreadsheets keep a track of every
client, the service received and potential future requirements. Keeping in
touch with clients and ensuring they receive first class customer service is an
absolute priority. Applying a quick sort and filter to my spreadsheet means I also
avoid the need for expensive Customer Relationship Management software.
But are
spreadsheets sexy? What does the dictionary definitions have to say about Sexy:
1.
Arousing or tending to arouse sexual desire or
interest.
No! Even I have to agree that spreadsheets aren’t
quite that amazing!
2. Highly appealing or interesting;
attractive.
I say yes! Spreadsheets are Sexy!
The final decision is yours – but don’t
waste too much time making your mind up J
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