Spreadsheets and custom software
How do I stop relying on one person who understands the spreadsheet?
Move the rules out of one person's memory. Document what the spreadsheet does, protect key formulas, define the data fields, and make the process understandable to more than one person. If the file controls important work, consider moving it into a system with permissions, history, and clearer workflow rules.
What to check
- Is the process documented outside the spreadsheet?
- Can another employee explain the key formulas and steps?
- Would the business be stuck if the owner of the file were unavailable?