Functions are a core component of creating formulas in the Datarails Flex Add-In, enabling users to bring data into Excel efficiently. The function specifies the value, source table, and type of calculation to define the data you need. For example, the 'Value' function sums the 'Amount' from the Financials table, helping you extract meaningful insights.

Create a New Function

To create a new function, follow these steps:

1. Select the cell in Excel where you want to add the new function.

2. Navigate to the Flex Add-In interface, click on 'Functions', and select the 'Add Function' button.

3. Assign a unique name to the function. This name will appear in the Formula bar when used.

4. In the new function interface that opens:

   • Use the 'Select Table' dropdown to choose the table where your data resides.

   • Drag the relevant numeric field for example, 'Amount') from the list of fields into the 'Values' section.

   • Drag relevant fields into the 'Filters' section and apply filtering criteria by clicking the filter icon.

   • From the dropdown, select a default aggregation field (e.g., 'Reporting Month') to structure your data.

5. Click 'Save' to finalize and add the function. The function will be added to the specified cell, and you can now use it within a formula.
   

Edit an Existing Function

To edit an existing function:

1. Click on the cell in Excel containing the function you want to edit.

2. Navigate to the Flex Add-In interface, click on 'Functions', and select the 'Edit Selected' button.

3. The function editor interface will be opened. Modify the value, source table, or calculation type as needed.

4. Click 'Save' to apply changes.

Manage Functions

The Flex Add-In provides a central location to manage all your functions:

1. Click on the 'Manage Functions' option in the Flex Add-In toolbar.
2. Browse through the list of all functions and use the search bar to locate specific ones.
3. To use a function, it must first be added to the file. If a function is already created, there is no need to recreate it. Navigate to the 'Manage Functions' interface to check the status of the function.

4. The 'Manage Functions' interface shows a list of all existing functions and indicates whether they already exist in the file or not. This is represented by a plus (+) or minus (-) icon next to each function:

   • Plus (+) Icon: The function does not exist in the file and needs to be added to be used. Click the plus icon to add it.

   • Minus (-) Icon: The function already exists in the file. If needed, it can be removed by clicking the minus icon.

5. From the 'Manage Functions' interface, you can edit or delete existing functions. For each function, you can also view the source table it references.
6. You can filter the list to show functions that either appear in the file or do not.
7. Use the 'Add Function' option to open the same interface used for creating a new function.

The 'Manage Functions' interface can also be accessed through the Datarails web platform. Navigate to the Excel Add-In section in the left-side panel to manage your functions.

Updated December 29, 2024 15:48