Curing spreadsheet headaches with parametric templates

Structural engineers have been relying on spreadsheets for years, especially for connection assessments. A senior engineer often creates an Excel template, which juniors use by simply plugging in new values to generate results. Although these templates are usually precisely prepared and validated on many projects, this system has its limitations – version control, data errors, maintenance issues, and standard compliance – all of which eat into valuable time and reduce accuracy. IDEA StatiCa's parametric templates offer an efficient alternative, combining ease of use with powerful automation to eliminate many of the problems inherent in spreadsheet-based workflows.

In this article, we’ll explore the challenges of using spreadsheets for connection assessments, the advantages of parametric templates in IDEA StatiCa, and how making this switch can transform workflows in structural engineering offices.

The challenges of spreadsheet-based connection checks

Spreadsheets have been the go-to solution for many firms due to their availability. Typically, a senior engineer prepares connection check spreadsheets in Excel and saves them to a shared drive. Then, the junior engineers make their own copies and adjust them as needed. 

What goes into these spreadsheets?

For these spreadsheets to function properly, they need to include:

• Cross-section inputs: Dimensions and properties from an internal section database.
• Material definitions: Properties for steel sections, bolts, plates, and welds from a materials database.
• Load definitions: Often entered manually by copying values from drawings or FEA software.
• Design setup: Including bolt count, weld height, and plate thickness.
• Assessment logic and equations: Set up according to industry standards.
• Summary of results: Displayed in a concise format.

While this workflow seems straightforward, there are several challenges. As the complexity of structural designs has grown, these once-adequate tools now fall short in several key areas:

Version control and distribution

Maintaining a “single source of truth” is vital for accuracy, yet it's notoriously difficult with spreadsheets. Engineers download templates to their local drives, which quickly become outdated as new versions are created. Without strict controls, outdated templates may circulate, leading to inconsistencies and errors in assessments.

Manual data entry and risk of errors

Spreadsheet workflows often require manual data entry — copying load values from drawings or reports, inputting material specifications, and more. Each step introduces a risk of error, from typos to unit mismatches. Furthermore, without robust input validation, the spreadsheet may calculate an assessment based on faulty data (out of the template range of validity), potentially compromising the safety and accuracy of the final design.

Database management complexity

Connection assessments require access to up-to-date databases of section properties, materials, bolt and weld specifications, and more. With spreadsheets, engineers face two options: either copy the relevant data into each spreadsheet, which multiplies size and maintenance tasks, or link to one external database, which can break if files are moved or renamed. Both approaches add layers of complexity.

Ensuring accuracy over time

Spreadsheet templates need to be carefully created and validated on several examples. Later on, they need to be maintained to ensure that formulas, database references, and logic remain correct. However, with multiple people accessing and modifying templates, accidental overwrites or unnoticed errors can degrade accuracy over time. Locking cells and formulas is possible but requires constant vigilance and technical skill.

Limited documentation of the spreadsheet logic

Spreadsheets are typically created and maintained by individuals who may leave the company or move to different roles. Without detailed documentation, it can be challenging for new users to understand the logic behind calculations, troubleshoot errors, or update formulas. This lack of transparency can turn a spreadsheet into a “black box”, where the logic is hidden and potentially misunderstood.

Reporting the results

To submit the finished design, there is an additional amount of work necessary to properly present the results in the form of sketches and drawings.

Conclusion

For structural engineers, IDEA StatiCa’s parametric templates represent a leap forward from traditional spreadsheet workflows. By centralizing data, automating calculations, and providing integrated code compliance, these templates eliminate many of the headaches associated with spreadsheets. Engineers gain more accurate, consistent, and efficient workflows, freeing up time to focus on what truly matters: designing safe and reliable structures.