subject: 3 Excel Musketeers [print this page] Microsoft Excel is a deep program rich in features and functionality. One of the most powerful features of Excel is the ability to write programs that run "behind"
your worksheets to turn Excel into a calculation-oriented development platform for creating special purpose spreadsheets which can function as applications in their
own right.
When we think of the Excel we are left with a thought as in who is the right person to work with this powerful tool.Suddenly three titles, Excel Consultant, Excel Programmer, and Excel Developer, might pop up in our mind. There exact role are different.
So what is the difference?
Firstly, an Excel programmer types code. They type code better than anyone else. They know VBA like the contents inside of a soda can. They do write formulas, create
pivot tables, etc. So they do work in the GUI, but they feel more comfortable in code, where they can create formulas, build Pivot Tables, etc. probably their favorite
movie is The Matrix.
Secondly, an Excel consultant speaks with the client, to understand their needs. They will analyze your files, your processes, and your skills. They will dig deep to
understand what it is you need. They will do presentations to senior staff; they will teach your staff what they need to know. They will develop an application that
fits you like a glove. They may use Access as well. They do step outside the Excel box occasionally.
Last but never the less, an Excel developer does the work of an Excel consultant and an Excel programmer, plus. The plus involves many possibilities. The Excel
developer may build an Access front-end with a SQL Server back-end, with the results being in Excel. A developer does not step outside the box, because for them there
is no box. They will use any and all tools available to make a project a successful one. They are comfortable stretching themselves, doing things that they have not
done before, etc. They are a powerful force; some say that they are the cream of the crop; combing the best characteristics of an Excel Programmer and an Excel Consultant, plus.
