CHAPTER 3 n USING XML IN EXCEL 2007 131
Figure 3-32. A custom ribbon added using an XML configuration file
Summary
In this chapter, we explored the various methods of bringing XML data in and out of Excel. We
also took an excursion into the new Office Open XML file format. While it looks complicated at
first glance, remember that it is all about relationships between parts. Once that??™s understood,
you??™ll be able to explore its many possibilities.
Finally, we added a custom user interface by modifying the underlying ZIP file format in
Excel 2007. By adding a customUI XML file describing the ribbon we wanted to add, and by
adding a relationship reference to one of Excel??™s built-in configuration files, we were able to
very simply add a custom ribbon.
Very powerful stuff indeed.
CHAPTER 3 n USING XML IN EXCEL 2007 132
UserForms
As skilled as we developers are at laying out a UI, when working with spreadsheets we find
our options may be a bit limited. Depending on what data is being entered, you may find your
users scrolling off the screen to the right or bottom of an Excel worksheet window.
UserForms in Excel 2007 allow you to create easy-to-use data entry screens for your users.
They can be used to display summary data or data from any data source. They provide us with
the tools we need to create ???wizard??? applications or simple data entry forms.
Creating a Simple Data Entry Form
Let??™s create a form for quick data entry for a call center doing a one-minute customer contact.
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