My client was wasting resource time trying to write long data reuse reports according to a standard, which required large amounts of data, and redundant information across multiple sections.

I built this Excel/Word automated streamliner to take data entry and some guided user input, and convert it into a finished report in Microsoft Word. The tool uses the entered data to pre-generate text and tables that satisfy the requirements of the standard without exhausting the resources who would otherwise create these by hand. The tool also provides formatting in accordance to the standard (not default Microsoft Word formatting). This tool cuts the report writing time from 1-3 days, down to 2-4 hours.

The tool accepts data entry regarding projects, parts, and tasks to be closed by the re-used data. The data entry sheets themselves include some time-saving features. The part data sheet includes a button-activated macro to import part images from provided URLs or File Paths, allowing the user to confirm that the correct image was entered.

The task-entry sheet draws known task information from a pre-loaded database, and includes functionality that allows the user to group multiple tasks which are closed by the same method and data.

The tool also takes in guided user-generated writing to provide additional details about the data used to close tasks, including tools to help input images, headings, and tables. These tools also automatically edit any images, headings, or tables which are selected. User guidance can be activated or deactivated at the press of a button, and a custom user interface allows the user to edit different sections of the document without overwhelming the space or subjecting the user to excess scrolling.

The entire process is tracked by the in-built checklist, allowing the user to easily see what remains.

Prior to generating the final document in Microsoft Word, the Preview sheet generates the document within an excel sheet to check spelling, data, and allow a read-through, as the final generation takes a few minutes. This preview also allows a section-by-section generation for sample exports and examinations. The preview includes all tables, headings, and images, both user-generated and tool-generated.

Once the user is satisfied with the generated document, they can generate the final document into Word, which takes 1-3 minutes.

Overall this process allows a knowledgeable user to generate a report in 2-4 hours, a process that previously took 1-3 days.