Microsoft Forms fixes one of the biggest issues with syncing data to Excel

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Microsoft Forms fixes one of the biggest issues with syncing data to Excel

What you need to know

  • Syncing data from Microsoft Forms to Excel spreadsheets is about to become more reliable.
  • Microsoft announced improvements to using Excel and Forms together, which include a bump up in performance.
  • Microsoft will phase out the older data sync solution by October 20, 2024 in favor of the better solution.
  • You can upgrade a workbook to the improved sync setup as long as you update the workbook before the October 20 cutoff.

As a sports manager who relies heavily on Microsoft Forms to keep track of various aspects of my American football team, I am thrilled about the upcoming improvements to data syncing between Microsoft Forms and Excel spreadsheets. The reliability and performance enhancements will save me from the headache of dealing with outdated or incomplete information.

Improving the real-time synchronization between Microsoft Forms and Microsoft Excel responses is now on the horizon, as Microsoft has unveiled a new, enhanced synchronization method!

So far, certain forms have been utilizing an older method for synchronization that had some room for enhancement in terms of dependability and speed. Previously, data synchronization was only supported for two types of forms: those created using OneDrive for Business and Excel Online, as well as group forms made with SharePoint Online, Teams, and Microsoft 365 Group. The updated synchronization method is compatible with a broader variety of forms now.

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By October 20, 2024, the existing synchronization method I’ve been observing is set for retirement. To ensure seamless data continuity moving forward, I strongly recommend upgrading any current workbooks to the newly introduced synchronization solution ahead of this deadline. If a workbook remains unupgraded, the data will persist, but it won’t incorporate fresh responses from Microsoft Forms in real-time.

When you access a form on the Forms website that still uses the older synchronization method, a notification will appear asking you to upgrade the form. Selecting “Upgrade sync in Excel” will initiate the update process. To upgrade the synchronization through the web version of Excel, follow a similar procedure, but the prompt will show up in a panel on the right side of Excel. If you opt for the web-based Excel upgrade, a new sheet will be generated within your workbook, allowing you to compare the original data and the data now powered by the updated synchronization solution.

Currently, synchronization is compatible only with Excel online, however, Microsoft is actively developing a feature that will allow the same capability to work with Excel for both Windows and macOS systems.

To determine if your workbook has been updated, look for the interface displayed when viewing outcomes. If you see “Open in Excel” along with a horizontal three-dot menu, then you are using the older synchronization method.

Improving Microsoft Forms

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Instead of relying heavily on Microsoft Forms for managing my American football team, I frequently utilize them to gather and organize responses. These responses come in various forms such as photo release forms, team quizzes, and other important details that require constant attention when overseeing a team. The advantage of this system is that the responses automatically sync with workbooks, sparing me from dealing with incomplete or incorrect data. Furthermore, it eliminates the confusion that comes from managing multiple static workbooks based on the same forms.

I’ve had a go at the latest syncing system and it appears to function as promised. I need to access various forms containing hundreds of responses prior to games, such as those filled out by parents or guardians of underage players on my team. Ensuring that these forms are current before a particular event is crucial for us.

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2024-08-28 18:09