Introduction

In the Japanese business environment, Microsoft Excel's presence is as ubiquitous as the air we breathe. However, amid the wave of digital transformation (DX), more voices are questioning this "given." This article examines the current state of Excel usage and its necessity in modern business.

Current State: Why is Excel So Widespread?

Historical Background

From the late 1980s through the 1990s, as PCs became widespread, the Office suite established itself as a standard business tool. Excel, in particular, gained business users' support due to its ease of use and versatility.

Reality of Proliferation

Many companies implement Excel for the following reasons:

・As part of a bulk Office product installation

・To maintain file compatibility with business partners

・To maintain connectivity with existing internal systems

Reality Check: Is Excel Actually Being Used Effectively?

Current Usage Patterns

In many workplace scenarios, Excel's advanced features remain largely unused:

・Simple table creation and data entry

・Creating printable forms

・Temporary data storage

・Basic list management

Examples of Inefficient Use

・Manual entry of large datasets

・Manual updates of multiple files

・Excessive use for simple display purposes

・Using Excel as a database substitute

Potential Alternatives

For Data Analysis

・Python (pandas, numpy)

・R

・Tableau

・Power BI

For Database Management

・MySQL

・PostgreSQL

・Cloud-based database services

Specialized Business Tools

・Project management: Jira, Trello

・Customer management: Salesforce

・Inventory management: Dedicated inventory management systems

Recommendations: Future Direction

Business Process Review

1. Visualize current workflow

2. Identify processes that genuinely require Excel

3. Consider migration to more appropriate tools

Steps for Improvement

1. Survey Excel usage patterns by department

2. Evaluate alternative tools and analyze cost-effectiveness

3. Develop phased migration plans

4. Support employee skill development

Conclusion

While Excel is undoubtedly a powerful tool, it isn't necessarily the "optimal" tool for every task. Many companies likely use Excel out of habit, potentially resulting in reduced operational efficiency and missed opportunities to implement more appropriate tools.

In this era of digital transformation, reassessing what we take for granted and selecting the most appropriate tools for each task could be key to enhancing corporate competitiveness.