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Program from my excel spreadsheets
Run local annual show using excel spreadsheet (basically as a database) linked through to many mail merge (Word) docs. Handles everything from schedule creation, entries (averaging 430 entries from around 35-45 entrants), judging lists, prize cards and certificates, need someone to help me make this more user friendly. Have a basic idea of design required; this is a system I have created and developed over the last 10+ years but I need to ramp it up to a bit more polished - that said, I am not stuck in my ideas as to how to achieve the end goal, so happy to have input/feedback as we go! (Needs to be 'standalone' Windows op system as most venues don't have internet access around here). Ideally would like someone who would be prepared to handle at least a couple of revisions as I finesse the system.
| Submitted | 19 May 2017 at 18:25 |
| Expired | 9 years ago |
| Average bid | $1,212.50 |
I have 5+ years of developer experience and don't shy away from hard work or long working hours. And I have 2+ years Excel VBA experience.
Hi Gillian
10 years of work on that spreadsheet tells me that it was working for you quite well. I have two suggestions:
- Either way you leave the excel spreadsheet as it is and build a GUI (Winforms) around it to improve the user friendliness.
- Put the excel spreadsheet data into a SQLite database which can be used offline and then build a GUI around that model. This has the advantage that your data is encapsulated in a real database which can be used by different programs. Even if you decide to build later a website to access the data.
Does suggestions are just some ideas which popped up in my mind. I love to hear your ideas how you want to approach the main goal to boost the user friendliness.
Cheers Marius
Hi Gillian,
I've worked on many of these types of systems over the past 20 or so years where they have outgrown their Excel beginnings and need to become a more cohesive application. If you only expect to have one user, then migrating the system to Microsoft Access may be the best option as you can still drive your mail merges natively while gaining better workflow through your entry screens and menu system.
I implemented a similar system with common requirements just recently and this has worked very well for the client. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you would like to discuss further.
Kind regards, Jane
Freelance Professionals
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Hi Gillian,
It sounds like your spreadsheet has evolved and become unmanageable and not serving the end user in an efficient manner. I have experience in cleaning data sets in excel based applications and creating meaningful tools and functions to display and act on information for global insurance and financial service companies. I would be happy to handle multiple revisions and provide ongoing support if required as and when your requirements change (e.g. updating functions and data sources). I think I have a pretty good idea of the scope of work required and this is reflected in the quote, looking forward to being in touch and learning more about your spreadsheet/local show operation in order to assist you.