Multiple users interfacing form

[jcarstens]

I just have a general question about forms. If I were to create a workbook with a userform and distribute it on multiple PC's, would there be any issues with simaltaneous data input. I understand I would have to share the workbook but wanted to see if there would be any potential problems with data not being recorded for some reason. Any insight would be extremely helpfull.

Thank you

[starryknight64]

Multiple users using the same worksheet is no problem.

Usually Office makes the file read-only upon the first user opening the document. So, other users will not be able to save changes (although they can open it and read it just fine).

If you need to merge spreadsheets, I suggest using a versioning system like SVN (or create your own using different version numbers as the file name).

That way people can see what other people have saved and submit their own "merged" version if necessary.

[jcarstens]

Would it be possible to elaborate on this at all, It would be extremely helpful.

Thank You

[starryknight64]

Depends on what you're wanting to do:

Are you wanting to have a program do the "versioning" for you (SVN, etc)?

Or are you wanting to do the "versioning" yourself (use different filenames, etc)?

[jcarstens]

I guess I am not sure. My end result would be having a form which could be stored on about 20 users PC's and have each user be able to interface the form cosecutively and have all data stored in one database.

[starryknight64]

Ahhh I see, you're using the form simply as a way to input into a database...

That's something for the database server folks and it might not be something you can find in here.

I'd suggest looking for a database forum to see how simultaneous updates are handled.

However, there may be someone in here that can help. Hopefully my reply will bump this thread into the view of someone who would know?

Eh... it's a long shot.

Sorry I couldn't be of more help!

[jcarstens]

I will look around, thanks for your

[martindwilson]

don't don't don't (well avoid if at all possible sharing workbooks where simultaneous entries could be made in same cell) you will have no end of grief!
shared work books can be a nightmare and you can risk losing loads of work when the thing goes pear shaped, you have been warned!
oh did i say
don't

[Kerno]

I have setup a form that records statistical information for our company using a user form similar to what you require but it is not through excel, I used Microsoft Access instead using a front end and back end, back end having the tables.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/304932

[jcarstens]

Yes, I was thinking about interfacing at some point with access, but to keep costs down I would like to have the front end user forms in excel format so every PC will not require access.