RE: data entry from excel workbook

I have developed a process (thank you Scott) that allows the user to create a excel spreadsheet, drop it into an AS/400 window, and received the spreadsheet back with the batch number. The user then go onto the AS/400 and posts the batch. I have also developed a process where the actuaries provide the factors in spreadsheets that they also drop into a window and the data is loaded into the database. This has become the preferred method for the users who use the spreadsheets to calculate massive numbers of figures that need to be loaded into the database. It allows them to continue to use what they are familiar with and avoid the numerous possibilities of human errors.

Marvin

------------------------------

message: 3
date: Fri, 3 May 2013 13:17:27 +0000
from: Gary Thompson <gthompson@xxxxxxxxxxx>
subject: data entry from excel workbook

Strange this project should come up this week!

This week it became apparent we need to automate data entry
to maintain detail article dimensions and attributes to support a
robotic picking system we are starting to commission.

RPGLE, embedded SQL and basic API programming is our sweet
spot. We do have one person skilled in Excel macros and
automation with VBA.

Our warehouse team is very attached to an Excel workbook and
we need to eliminate delays that occur in passing the workbook
to a data entry person (not always available to meet warehouse
schedules), provide data edits and error reporting, eliminate typing
errors and make the process much faster.

My question is what tool(s) do we use to consume the Excel
workbook ?

We have been using for some time (and great effect) variations
on Scott Klement's DELTREE to process files on the IFS, and have
seen discussion of ways to read Excel files (don't see a need
to write/update but have not absolutely ruled this out).


------------------------------