Video: Data Validation

By Marc Casal on December 10 2010

Video Transcript

This video tutorial is on data validation. Data validation is a useful technique to allow inputs to be restricted to certain parameters.

It can be used to:

1. Create a simple, binary on and off switch so calculations can easily be turned on & off
2. Restrict inputs based on a given parameter such as limiting loan tenor
3. Prompt users to pick from a given drop down list

We often build models with monthly construction and quarterly operations. This can lead to the issue where construction does not complete on a calendar quarter. That’s where data validation can be used to restrict inputs so that this does not occur.

To activate, simply click on the relevant cell and press the shortcut

Alt + D + L 

The settings menu will pop up. Various parameters can be changed, in this case however we’re going to pick from a list.

Simply enter the relevant period ends in the box provided.

We’re also going to prepare an input message to alert the user to what inputs can be entered. Simply click the box and enter a relevant message.

Finally, we want an error message to appear if an invalid parameter is entered. This should make things very clear to a user who is not familiar with data validation.

When we return to the sheet, you can see that an input message now appears. If I enter an invalid input, you can see that the error message now appears.

This technique and many other financial modelling techniques are covered in our training course PFM(A). Alternatively, please contact one of our sales representatives for an in-house course to be developed.

To learn more about this topic and any other financial modelling topic, please visit our website www.navigatorPF.com and also www.fimodo.com.

Comments