Why XLSM Format Is Required

The Excel files supplied with Chemical Solutions™ HSQ Kit™ and PQ Kit™ products contain built-in macros that automate important qualification functions.

These macros support:

• Automated calculations
• Data validation
• Qualification reporting
• Result generation
• Spreadsheet workflow automation

If the files are saved in a standard Excel workbook format that does not support macros, critical functionality may be lost or disabled.

For proper operation, all qualification spreadsheets should be saved as Macro-Enabled Excel Workbook (.XLSM) files.

Understanding Macro-Enabled Workbooks

Microsoft Excel uses the XLSM file format to store workbooks containing Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) macros.

Saving qualification files in XLSM format ensures that:

• Macros remain intact
• Automated functions continue to operate correctly
• Qualification calculations are preserved
• Reporting tools remain available
• Validation procedures function as designed

Failure to save the files as XLSM may prevent important features from operating properly.

Important IT and Security Considerations

Many organizations implement security controls that restrict the use of Excel macros.

As a result:

• Macros may be disabled by default.
• Macro-enabled files may be blocked by organizational security policies.
• IT approval may be required before macro-enabled files can be used.

If your laboratory uses HSQ Kit™ or PQ Kit™ spreadsheets as part of approved qualification procedures, coordinate with your IT department to ensure the files can operate within your organization's security requirements.

Best Practices for Using Qualification Spreadsheets

Save Files as XLSM

Always save qualification spreadsheets as Macro-Enabled Excel Workbooks (.XLSM) before entering or processing data.

Enable Macros When Opening the File

If Excel displays a security notification regarding macros, follow your organization's approved procedures for enabling trusted content.

Work with Your IT Department

If macros are restricted, your IT department may be able to:

• Approve the file location as a trusted location
• Establish appropriate security permissions
• Implement digitally signed file requirements
• Configure Excel macro settings according to company policies

Maintain Backup Copies

Before making changes to qualification spreadsheets, consider maintaining a backup copy of the original file for reference and recovery purposes.

Common Issues Caused by Incorrect File Formats

Saving qualification spreadsheets in a format other than XLSM may result in:

• Disabled automated calculations
• Missing qualification reports
• Incomplete data processing
• Loss of embedded macros
• Spreadsheet functionality errors

When troubleshooting workbook performance, verifying the file format should be one of the first diagnostic steps.

Key Takeaways

• HSQ Kit™ and PQ Kit™ spreadsheets contain built-in macros.
• Qualification files must be saved as Macro-Enabled Excel Workbooks (.XLSM).
• Saving files in other formats can disable important qualification functions.
• Some organizations restrict macro use through IT security policies.
• Coordinate with your IT department if macro permissions are required.
• Maintaining backup copies is recommended before editing qualification files.