Datarails Connect: Embedded Range

Embedded Range Overview

The Embedded Range feature allows you to show Excel snippets (ranges) directly in dashboards. By selecting a specific range in Excel and embedding it, you can dynamically present up-to-date data in your dashboard. This feature is seamlessly connected with the Reference Date in both Excel and the dashboard.

How to Use Embedded Ranges

  1. Access the Embed in Dashboard Icon
    In the Datarails ribbon, click on the Embed in Dashboard icon. A welcome screen will appear, showing a short introductory video and an option to select a range.
  2. Select a Range
    When you choose Select a Range, a window opens where you can mark the desired range within your Excel sheet.
    • Example: To display the monthly P&L up to gross profit for a specific month with a year-over-year comparison, mark the relevant range, then approve the selection.
  3. Name the Widget and Select a Dashboard
    • Give your range an identifiable name (e.g., Gross Profit Monthly).
    • Choose the dashboard where you want this range to appear from the list of dashboards available in your organization.
    • Click Embed in Dashboard to create a widget in your dashboard.
  4. View the Dashboard
    Once the embed is complete, you can open your dashboard directly from Excel. In your browser, you’ll see the new widget exactly as it appears in Excel.
  5. Dynamic Updates with Reference Date
    If you change the Reference Date in the dashboard, the embedded range automatically adjusts in Excel to reflect the new date.
    • Example: Switching the Reference Date to March 2023 updates both Excel and the dashboard widget accordingly.
  6. Creating Additional Embedded Ranges
    You can embed multiple Excel ranges, such as formulas, data, text, or numbers.
    • After marking a new range, click the Embed in Dashboard icon.
    • Select Create a new embedded range, name it (e.g., Highlight), and choose the dashboard.
    • Optionally, enable Highlight Selected Range in Excel to visually mark the embedded range in your spreadsheet.
  7. Submitting Updates
    • If you make any changes to an embedded range (e.g., adjusting cell values, expanding columns), click Submit Updates to ensure these changes are reflected in the dashboard.
  8. Managing Embedded Ranges
    • The Manage Embedded Ranges screen allows you to edit, update, or delete existing embedded ranges.
    • To adjust a selection (e.g., expand from columns D–E to D–F), manually update the range and Submit Updates.
    • To delete a range, select it and click Delete. You can undo this action if necessary.

Supported Features

When using the Embedded Range feature, it is crucial to know which elements are supported and which are not. The following guidelines will help you navigate this feature effectively:

Supported

Excel Built-in Cell Formatting
Only built-in cell formatting is supported, including standard formats like date, currency, percentage, and general number formats.

Standard Excel Functions

A curated list of Excel functions is supported when using the Embedded Range feature. Refer to the list of supported functions in our documentation.

Supported Fonts

To ensure consistent rendering in the web application, only the following fonts are supported:

  • Agency
  • Arial
  • Calibri
  • Cambria
  • David
  • Gara
  • Poppins
  • Roboto
  • Rock
  • Tahoma
  • Times
  • Verdana

Unsupported

Merged Cells

Embedded ranges cannot contain merged cells. Ensure your selection does not include any merged cells.

Cells with “Wrap Text” Option Enabled

Disable the “Wrap Text” option for all cells within the range before embedding.

Custom Formatting

Only Excel’s built-in formats are supported. Custom formatting options may cause display issues.

Best Practices

Prepare Your Range

Double-check that your range adheres to all supported guidelines before embedding.

Use Supported Fonts

Stick to the approved fonts list to maintain visual consistency across the dashboard.

Supported Functions Only

Use only the supported Excel functions to avoid errors when displaying calculated data.

Submit Updates

Any changes you make to an embedded range (including size or cell content) require you to click Submit Updates to reflect the latest version in the dashboard.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues while using the Embedded Range feature, review the following checklist:

  • Confirm that no merged cells are present in your selection.
  • Verify that the “Wrap Text” option is disabled for all cells.
  • Ensure only built-in Excel formatting is applied to the range.
  • Use supported fonts and functions as outlined in this article.
  • Always click Submit Updates after making any changes in Excel.

If problems persist, please reach out to our support team for further assistance.

Conclusion

The Embedded Range feature enables you to seamlessly integrate Excel content into your dashboards. By following the guidelines on supported formats, fonts, and functions—and by regularly submitting updates—you can ensure a smooth, dynamic experience for all your dashboard viewers. If you need additional help, refer to the troubleshooting tips or contact support. Enjoy using Embedded Ranges in your dashboards!




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