Why Spreadsheet Migrations Stall
Most migrations fail because teams underestimate hidden logic, edge cases, and informal process ownership embedded in spreadsheets.
Migration Checklist
- Inventory critical spreadsheets and owners.
- Document formulas, lookup rules, and exception handling.
- Normalize data structures and define source-of-truth systems.
- Build validation rules and audit trails.
- Run dual operation for two reporting cycles.
- Train users by role and create quick SOPs.
- Define rollback and support plan.
Avoid Big-Bang Releases
Replace one high-value workflow first, prove reliability, then sequence adjacent workflows.
Conclusion
Migration is successful when teams trust the new system enough to stop opening legacy spreadsheets.