Interactive Calculations

https://openasapp.wistia.com/medias/mjaz2r21xr

---

Q&A

• What will happen if I change my Excel sheet and cells get displaced?
• Will users of my app receive a push message if data have been updated? 
• Which data sources can I use?
• Can I integrate Open as App into a SingleSignOn concept?
• Does the App Creator recognize all excel formulas or macros?
• Can I save individual calculations or planning scenarios made while using the app?
• How can I integrate or write back data into my back end system?
• How can I brand my apps e.g. upload my logo?
• General questions on data security

---

What will happen if I change my Excel sheet and cells get displaced?

You can change single values or formulas without any problems. However, if the structure of your spreadsheet changes and cells get displaced your app might display the data values of the new cell at this place rather then the original cell’s content. To be on the safe side you can use name definitions. Example: Cell B5 is named “VAT”. Your app will then refer to the cell name no matter where this cell is displaced to.

If you don’t use name definitions you should keep from changing the “architecture” of your app.

---

Will users of my app receive a push message if data have been updated?

Yes they will. When opening the app you will be informed if there is an updated version. By clicking on “Install” this new version will be installed. That is valid for all data sources which are hosted on Open as App.

In the near future, this option will also be availabe be for apps based on third party systems. You will be able to inform about changes directly via API. The app users will then equally find an Update-Message when starting the app.

In addition, you will find the function “Search for updates” in the right hand side menu of your App Client.

---

Which data sources can I use?

Besides Excel in your dropbox or on your desktop you can also choose Google Sheets or any other system with a tabular structure. Also, you can use all technologies which can provide files via a download link. This includes for example, CRM Dynamics, Dynamics Navision, OneDrive, OneDrive for Business or web server.

The integration of these systems is already possible via API. We are working on automated connections.

---

Can I integrate Open as App into my SingleSignOn concept?

Right now you still have to log into Open as App directly. However, we will offer this option in the future.

---

Does the App Creator recognize all Excel formulas or macros?

Open as App recognizes almost all Excel formulas. We do, however, not transfer any macros. This is due to the platform independence of Open as App: Apple does not allow to download further code. Therefore, Microsoft Excel cannot show macros on iOS and keeps the same policy for Android.

In addition, the main focus of macros is on redefinition. You can create this highlighting with the design and filter functionality in Open as App.

---

Can I save individual calculations or planning scenarios made in by using the app?

You can save individual scenarios in your app and retrieve them later on when you need them. When saving your calculation scenario you can choose to save the data on the client or in the Cloud.

---

How can I integrate or write back data into my back end system?

Currently data are hosted in the Open as App Cloud (based on Microsoft Azure).

The use with other systems is already in planning so that very soon you will be able to write back data into your infrastructure. If you have activated the “push back” command, you can view a data protocol that you can download as a full dataset.

You can save this change protocol e.g. in a staging database for transfer in your chosen system.

---

Can I include my own logo or use my branding?

You can add your logo or any other image to any app. To integrate your logo in the header section of your app open the header editor and add your image. The header is the top element of your app and contains in general the name of your app.

In addition, you can adapt the layout of the „App Card“. To to “Info” -> “Card Layout”.

We are currently working on many new design themes to choose from. This way you will be able to unify the designs of your apps. You can synchronize the use of colors or of background images etc.

With Business Enterprise Level you can save your own themes and select them with one click. Also, you have the option to bring your own app client to the App Stores. The additional costs for this will be calculated and invoiced on a project basis.

---

General information on security.

Hosting: With Open as App you can save your data sources savely in the Open as App Cloud (based on Microsoft Azure) or retrieve your documents directly from your own corporate infrastructure. Alternatively you can host your data for the Open as App service at Cloud service providers such as Dropbox, Google Drive or OneDrive.

On premises hosting: If you decide to work directly with the data in your infrastructure, only the initial app creation will take place in the Cloud. The source file will be sent only during the short creation process in encrypted form to the Open as App server. Changes at a later time will be sent from your server directly to the app clients; there won’t be any communication via the Open as App Cloud.

Tips for security-relevant data: Apps can be created with files containing dummy data. Once the app is finished you can link it to the original file from your company and be passed on to the Clients as a data update.

In contrast to open files or eMails attachments Open as App gives you full control of the up-to-dateness and the access to all the data in your Apps. You will find detailed information in the articles “Who can see my apps” and “Whitepaper on Security“