allow the insertion of data to a spreadsheet, but don't allow saving

Hi,

I work at a biotech lab. We've created a spreadsheet with formulas so when the clinical scientists enter numbers they can get automatic output values. This same spreadsheet is going to be used over and over again. We don't want them to be able to make any changes to the formulas/spreadsheet or be able to save the sheet. (We are trying to bullet proof our process) I would do read only, but they can't enter data into the sheet to make calculations. Is there a way to do this?

Thanks.

File - Save As - Tools - General Options
You can then make a "password to modify"
The file can be manipulated, but not saved, without the password.
This should help you out.

If you want to have parts of the sheet protected, you need to highlight the cells you want them to be able to edit, and format - cells - Protection - deselect "locked". Then protect the sheet and the cells that are no longer locked will be editable.

Hi Melvinrobb,

Thanks for your quick response. I actually have Excel 2010 (I updated it in my profile), but I was still able to figure almost everything out from the information you provided.

[1] First, I unlocked the cells I want to grant editing access
[2] Second, I password protected the sheet. This prevented anyone from editing the formulas or any data in the locked cells as you had pointed out. (unless they had a password)

One thing I couldn't find, was how...

The file can be manipulated, but not saved, without the password.

In Excel 2010, I could see where in File>Info>Permissions I could password protect a workbook. But, that doesn't help us. We need them to be able to manipulate the worksheet (the parts we allow them to) and then not be able to save it unless they have a password. Maybe I just misunderstood you?

Thanks again.

Click File - click Save-As - Click Tools (right beside Save) - Click "General Options" - put a password in the "password to modify" spot.
When you re-open the file you will be asked for a password. If you do not have the password you will only be able to open a read-only version of the file, and you will not being able to save over the original file.

Did this accomplish what you were looking for?