When should I release workbooks when building models for clients?

release workbook
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6 years ago
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When should I release workbooks when building models for clients?

I'm using Modano to build financial models for clients and have been releasing the workbooks before emailing them the model. Is this the right approach?

I know my clients can open modular workbooks without Modano installed, but some of them have complained that they can't unhide grouped rows and columns because the sheets are protected. Is there a way around this without releasing workbooks?

6 years ago
Michael Hutchens A+ 162

Hi Jeffrey,

This is an interesting topic, as I don't think most Modano users properly understand their options when building modular workbooks for clients...

It's worth noting a few of things regarding releasing workbooks, as it's often a double-edged sword:

  1. You should generally avoid releasing unless it's 100% necessary to do so, as it's a one-way street and more often than not it ends up costing you via lost time and efficiencies going forward, particularly with scalable and rolling models which can no longer be automatically scaled rolled.
  2. You only really need to release in a few cases, which are most commonly (1) when getting a model audit done, (2) when using other software that doesn't work with the sheet and workbook protection used by Modano and this can't be worked around using the Modano API, (3) your client wants to edit non-assumptions content within module components within the model and doesn't want to try or pay for Modano, or (4) your client is using Mac Excel, which doesn't support Modano, and doesn't want to install the Windows version of Excel on their Mac.
  3. Clients can install a free 30-day trial of Modano (send them this link: www.modano.com/30_day_trial) and use this to edit the workbook without restrictions, while also enjoying the benefits of automation (e.g. adding categories, extending the time series, etc.). After their 30-day trial expires, Modano enters Reader Mode, which allows users to open modular workbooks and use them (including entering assumptions and collapsing/expanding grouped rows and columns, etc.) but not edit non-assumptions content (e.g. formulas). Hence, Reader Mode can be used by clients at no cost to use models, without any risk of them breaking their integrity, even after 30-day trials expire.
  4. 3rd parties can always edit content within freeform sheets, with or without Modano installed, including the overview sheet and section cover sheets.
  5. The Modano API (which can be downloaded using this link: www.modano.com/api/latest) can be used to automate things in modular workbooks using VBA - such as hiding and unhiding sheets when a disclaimer is added to the overview sheet requiring consent from the user. 3rd parties will need Modano installed to use the Modano API code.

For these reasons, we always encourage clients to start by installing a free 30-day trial of Modano and working with the modular workbook before deciding if they'd like to purchase a subscription or continue using a released/static file. And it's usually an easy decision for them if they want to do basic automation tasks themselves - such as adding categories - which most of our clients want to do...

I hope this helps! M.