Scaling up an end-user dependability framework for spreadsheets

The WYSIWYT (What You See is What You Test) methodology applies formal analysis and testing techniques to the spreadsheet paradigm. So far the methodology has been applied to a research spreadsheet prototype, Forms/3. However, this prototype lacks the mathematical libraries, referential functions, ranges, and macros of commercial spreadsheets like Excel and Lotus 1-2-3. Study subjects are also accustomed to the grid-like interface of commercial spreadsheet packages and many spreadsheets of interest are available in the Excel file format. This project addresses these areas by implementing WYSIWYT in Microsoft Excel and Gnumeric

Scaling up an end-user dependability framework for spreadsheets

The WYSIWYT (What You See is What You Test) methodology applies formal analysis and testing techniques to the spreadsheet paradigm. So far the methodology has been applied to a research spreadsheet prototype, Forms/3. However, this prototype lacks the mathematical libraries, referential functions, ranges, and macros of commercial spreadsheets like Excel and Lotus 1-2-3. Study subjects are also accustomed to the grid-like interface of commercial spreadsheet packages and many spreadsheets of interest are available in the Excel file format. This project addresses these areas by implementing WYSIWYT in Microsoft Excel and Gnumeric

A Paradigm for Spreadsheet Engineering Methodologies

Spreadsheet engineering methodologies are diverse and sometimes contradictory. It is difficult for spreadsheet developers to identify a spreadsheet engineering methodology that is appropriate for their class of spreadsheet, with its unique combination of goals, type of problem, and available time and resources. There is a lack of well-organized, proven methodologies with known costs and benefits for well-defined spreadsheet classes. It is difficult to compare and critically evaluate methodologies. We present a paradigm for organizing and interpreting spreadsheet engineering recommendations. It systematically addresses the myriad choices made when developing a spreadsheet, and explicitly considers resource constraints and other development parameters. This paradigm provides a framework for evaluation, comparison, and selection of methodologies, and a list of essential elements for developers or codifiers of new methodologies. This paradigm identifies gaps in our knowledge that merit further research

Visualising formula structures to support exploratory modelling

Visualisation is often presented as a means of simplifying information and helping people understand complex data. In this paper we describe a project designing interactive visualisations to support core learner competencies in the broad area of numeracy. The work builds upon: (i) the observation that while spreadsheets are traditional ICT tools, their widespread use means that they are often introduced as a means of exploring basic mathematical modelling; (ii) a research theme examining the human factors that influence the ease with which formal notations can be understood and applied appropriately. Our paper describes the iterative design and evaluation of a tool to visualise spreadsheets, with the aim of supporting mid-teen learners based on the premise that spreadsheets serve as a gateway tool for supporting learner experimentation and confidence within numerate subjects. This iterative process is informed by background research into notational design, graphic design as well as learner and tutor feedback

An integrated testing and fault localization methodology for spreadsheet languages

Spreadsheet languages, which include commercial spreadsheets and various research systems, have proven to be flexible tools in many settings. Research shows, however, that spreadsheets often contain faults. This thesis presents an integrated testing and fault localization methodology for spreadsheets. This methodology allows spreadsheet developers to engage in modeless development, testing and debugging activities. Furthermore, we provide an interface to our methodology that does not require an understanding of testing and debugging theory. To accomplish this, we introduce the notion of fault likelihood: the likelihood that a given cell contains a fault that contributes to an known failure in the spreadsheet. To estimate fault likelihood we present five properties that we feel should govern its behavior. We then discuss our implementation of this methodology and illustrate its use