A framework for managing spreadsheet-based end user applications

Abstract

© 2019 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd. As spreadsheets are a ubiquitous tool used in most organisations, often for management support as well, managing them is more than indispensable but very often inadequate. The aim of the study is therefore to improve the management of spreadsheet-based end user applications. Starting from the existing frameworks for building and managing spreadsheets developed by end users, and guidelines of good practices, an initial version of spreadsheet framework for managing spreadsheet-based end user applications was developed (consisting of three parts: steps, skill categories and user categories). Fifteen spreadsheet experts were subsequently identified, who overviewed the framework, and the latter was modified and improved based on their suggestions. The final version of the framework was evaluated positively by four (additional) experts, based on which it can be concluded that the set framework can be applied in organisations using spreadsheet programs and, at the same time, reduce the possibility of occurrence of errors and other spreadsheet risks.