Skip to main content

Best Practices

Use these practices when creating, filling, and testing Spreadsheet Forms.

For Form Creators​

  1. Keep each input field to one cell.
  2. Use clear field names such as requested_amount, claim_date, or department.
  3. Use clear labels because labels appear in validation messages.
  4. Use Dropdown for controlled lists instead of expecting users to type exact values.
  5. Use Date for date input instead of a text field with manual date instructions.
  6. Use Number for values that must be calculated, queried, or exported as numbers.
  7. Review all bindings after inserting or deleting rows and columns.
  8. Keep formulas in unbound/static cells where possible.
  9. Test the form preview before publishing.
  10. Submit a test workflow and export the XLSX before using a complex spreadsheet in production.

For Submitters​

  1. Use the spreadsheet shell buttons, not the browser back button, when saving or submitting.
  2. Fill required cells before final submission.
  3. Use the dropdown control for Dropdown cells.
  4. Use the date picker for Date cells.
  5. Save as draft if the form is not ready.
  6. Read validation messages carefully because they include the cell address and field label.

For Formulas​

  1. Test formulas in the actual OSPROV builder and filler, not only in Excel.
  2. Avoid Excel-only functions.
  3. Avoid macros and external references.
  4. Avoid formulas in user-entered bound text fields.
  5. Use simple same-sheet formulas for best reliability.