Data Entry
The Data Entry feature lets authorized users input or update values directly within a worksheet. This is especially useful for budgeting, forecasting, scenario planning, or any situation where quick data entry is needed.
Editable fields depend on the configuration in the Data Model Designer. Only fields marked as updatable can be edited.
Data Entry is not supported on worksheets that utilize Pivots.
When to use data entry
- Performing what-if analysis: Run temporary scenario simulations by entering new values.
- Entering or adjusting budgets, forecasts, or targets: Update planning values directly in your worksheet.
- Making controlled manual updates: Add or edit data to complement information from your source system.
Enable data entry
To use the data entry feature, you must enable it both in the data model and in the worksheet.
Enable data entry in Data Model Designer
- Right-click the data model and select Design Data Model.
The Data Model Designer opens in a new window. - In the Edit section, ensure the desired fields are set as editable in Editable Level.
- Under File, click Data Model Properties to open the dialog.
- Under Behavior, enable Worksheet is updatable to allow data entry at the worksheet level.
- Click Ok.
- Under File, select Save Data Model.
When the confirmation message appears, you can close the Data Model Designer.
Enable data entry in the worksheet
- Open the worksheet from the same data model.
- In the Toolbar panel, click Worksheet Properties.
- Select the Advanced Options tab, and expand Data Entry.
- Enable Activate Data Entry.
Editable Columns is highlighted in light purple. - (Optional) Enable Activate Auto Save to automatically save the changes.
Edit values
Once editing mode is activated, the editable columns are highlighted in light purple.
- Select a field you want to modify.
- Enter a new valye, and press Enter.
- The modified cell turns light green to indicate an unsaved change.
- If Activate Auto Save is enabled, your changes are saved automatically.
Group-level and detail-Level entry
You can enter values at either the detail or group level:
| Level | Description |
|---|---|
| Detail Level | Enter values directly in individual records. |
| Group Level | Enter values at an aggregated level. The system automatically distributes the entered value to underlying records using:
|
➤ Example – Entering values at group level
If a data model contains both Budget and Actual Dollars, and the Budget Dollars field has the Split-by Ratio property set, enter a Grand Total for Budget Dollars. The system will automatically distribute the total to underlying records based on the defined ratio.
Refresh the worksheet
To discard unsaved changes or update with the latest data:
- In the Toolbar panel, click Refresh Data.
This reload the worksheet with the most current data from the model.
Back up data manually
For cloud environments, perform manual backups before using data entry for key processes like forecasts or budgets. This helps ensure longer-term data retention beyond what is provided by the default cloud environment.
- Export data to Excel, or
- Use the Scheduler or DataSync module to automate replication to a local environment.