Excel has always been a powerful tool for anyone working with data, and with Microsoft 365, it has only become even better. Whether you’re handling financial reports, analyzing trends, or simply organizing information, the latest updates to Excel make it faster, more versatile, and collaborative. Here’s a guide to the most important new features you should take advantage of in Excel for Microsoft 365.
Get things done faster with SEARCH
If you’ve ever struggled to find a command in Excel’s Ribbon, the SEARCH feature is a game-changer. Simply type what you need, such as “pivot table” or “sum,” and Excel will show you the best options to get started. It also remembers your previous searches, making frequent tasks more accessible. Managing complex spreadsheets then becomes significantly easier and more efficient, helping you save valuable time.
Explore advanced chart types
Visualizing data is crucial; that’s why Microsoft has introduced a range of new chart types to help you display your information more effectively. From treemaps (perfect for hierarchical data) to waterfall charts (ideal for financial statements), Excel now offers a variety of ways to see your data come to life. These chart types can help you uncover insights that might otherwise go unnoticed, such as revenue trends or sales patterns.
Real-time collaboration
The era of exchanging Excel files through endless email chains is over. With Microsoft 365, your team can collaborate simultaneously on the same spreadsheet. As long as the file is saved in SharePoint or OneDrive, your team can work together in real time. You’ll see exactly what others are editing, and you can even leave comments inside cells to discuss changes.
Linked data types
Excel’s linked data types are a powerful feature that lets you pull in real-time, updated information from the web directly into your spreadsheets. For example, if you’re tracking stock prices, you can enter a company’s ticker symbol, and Excel will automatically fetch the latest stock price. The data in these cells updates regularly, so there’s no need to manually update figures.
Dynamic arrays for smarter formulas
Dynamic arrays are one of the most exciting additions to Excel for Microsoft 365. These formulas allow you to return multiple results from a single calculation. The FILTER function, for instance, can be used to pull only certain data from a list. As your data changes, the dynamic arrays adjust automatically, making them perfect for ever-changing datasets.
Version History and AutoSave
Losing your work is probably the most nerve-wracking thing about working on spreadsheets. Fear no more. With AutoSave enabled on files stored in OneDrive, SharePoint, or OneDrive for Business, your changes are saved automatically. If anything goes wrong, Version History lets you easily restore an earlier version of your file. You can review, compare, and recover past versions whenever you need to, giving you complete control and peace of mind.
Sheet Views for custom filtering
Team members often need to look at data in different ways because of their unique roles or perspectives. With Sheet Views, Excel allows you to create custom filtered or sorted views of your worksheet without affecting the rest of your team’s view. Whether you’re analyzing sales data or project timelines, this feature makes it easy to personalize your experience while keeping everyone else’s work intact.
3D maps to visualize geospatial data
For those working with geographical data, Excel’s 3D Maps feature provides an interactive way to display and analyze information on a three-dimensional globe. This feature is great for presenting sales or demographic data across regions and allows you to see patterns that are much harder to spot in flat spreadsheets.
Microsoft 365 Copilot
For users who subscribe to Microsoft 365 Copilot, Excel now includes an AI assistant that can help you generate charts, summarize data, and even suggest formulas. While it’s still in its early stages, Copilot can offer guidance for users who may not be Excel experts. However, don’t expect it to replace the experience of manually crafting detailed analyses just yet.
For more Microsoft 365 tips and technology insights, contact our knowledgeable team. We’re always ready to assist you.
When you think “construction,” you think blueprints, heavy machinery, and boots on the ground. You may not immediately associate the term “digital transformation” with the construction industry. But those working in this sector should seriously consider embracing digital transformation if they want to remain relevant and competitive. Even small and mid-sized construction businesses in Hawaii can benefit greatly from digital technology.
What is digital transformation in construction?
It is the adoption of digital tools and technologies that can help construction firms in planning, designing, building, and managing projects. These tools include cloud-based project management platforms, real-time data analytics, mobile apps for field workers, and even the integration of drones and building information modeling (BIM).
Digital transformation goes beyond acquiring new software. It requires you to rethink your operations. It’s about maximizing technology to improve your workflow, from bidding and planning to execution and client handovers.
Why should it matter for Hawaii construction SMBs?
Construction firms in Hawaii face several challenges. Land is limited, environmental regulations are strict, labor and materials are expensive, and the logistics of inter-island work are demanding. But thanks to digital transformation, local firms can address such challenges with smarter and more cost-effective solutions.
Here are three examples:
- Cloud-based collaboration tools can help teams working across the islands stay connected in real time, reducing delays due to miscommunication.
- Mobile project tracking apps allow foremen and site managers to stay on top of the project during all stages and even in remote locations.
- Data analytics can help owners and managers pinpoint common causes of delays or budget overruns, which can lead to improved forecasting and resource allocation in future projects.
Digital tools reshaping the construction industry
These digital solutions are helping construction firms boost efficiency, reduce errors, and stay competitive:
Project management software
Replace traditional spreadsheets with centralized platforms like Procore or Buildertrend. These apps allow everyone, from architects to subcontractors, to work off the same data in real time, thereby improving accountability and communication.
Cloud computing
Storing all your project data in the cloud makes it accessible from anywhere, which is an advantage for firms that operate in several locations. Cloud storage provides extra security from loss of data (such as plans and permits) due to hardware failure.
Mobile technology
Tablets and smartphones should be included in your essential tool kit on a construction site. Now, field workers can take photos, submit forms, and access blueprints digitally. These digital tools help save time and reduce errors.
Building information modeling
In the past, only large firms could afford to use BIM, but now the tool has become more accessible to SMBs. BIM’s 3D modeling and collaboration features allow designers, engineers, builders, and others to check for design flaws even before construction begins.
Shared services and automation
With digital tools, routine back-office tasks such as invoicing, payroll, and compliance reports can be automated, freeing staff to concentrate on core operations.
How to get started with digital transformation
If you’re with a construction SMB in Hawaii, you may not know the first steps to take toward digital transformation. That’s why it’s better to partner with home-grown Tech Partners Hawaii. A local provider understands both the technology that drives your business and the unique demands of operating in the Hawaiian Islands.
A trusted MSP partner can help:
- Assess your current systems to pinpoint inefficiencies.
- Recommend solutions that are scalable and affordable.
- Set up a secure, cloud-based infrastructure.
- Train you and your staff on the new tools and workflows.
- Provide 24/7 cybersecurity protection and support.
Digital transformation is a process
Don’t think of digital transformation as a switch from old to new. Rather, it’s adding on smarter tools and processes to your tried-and-tested practices to further enhance your business operations. Even small changes, such as digitizing timecards or centralizing your file storage, can lead to major efficiency enhancements.
The bottom line for Hawaii construction business
Digital transformation isn’t just for large mainland firms with massive budgets. Even Hawaiian contractors, builders, and construction managers can do more with less and deliver better outcomes for clients with digital transformation.
In a region where competition is increasing, and every minute of labor and every ton of material counts, it’s a smart strategy to invest in technology for your long-term growth.
Want to start your digital journey? Contact Tech Partners Hawaii today.