Learn Best Practices with Excel and Google Sheets - David Benaim

Welcome to the Financial Modeler's Corner (FMC), where we discuss the Art and Science of Financial Modeling with your host Paul Barnhurst.

Financial Modeler's Corner is sponsored by the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI), the most respected accreditation in Financial Modeling globally.

In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with David Benaim, an Excel MVP and data consultant based in Cambodia. They delve into a comparative analysis of two of the most popular spreadsheet tools—Excel and Google Sheets. The discussion covers the strengths and weaknesses of each platform, providing listeners with insights into when and how to use these tools effectively in their financial modeling and data analysis work.

David Benaim is a chartered accountant and Excel MVP who has made a name for himself as an expert in both Excel and Google Sheets. Originally from the UK, David now runs a data consulting firm in Cambodia, where he specializes in Excel training and data solutions. With a deep passion for spreadsheets, David is uniquely positioned to discuss the nuances of both platforms, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to optimize their use of Excel or Google Sheets.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

• Key differences between Excel and Google Sheets, including tables, functions and data entry features.
• The strengths of Google Sheets in collaborative environments and its data validation capabilities.
• How to decide whether to use Excel or Google Sheets for different types of projects.
• Insights into the new table features in Google Sheets and how they compare to Excel’s tables.
• David’s tips on getting started with Google Sheets for those accustomed to Excel.

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• Website - https://www.xlconsulting-asia.com/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davebenaim/

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In today’s episode:

[01:21] - Introduction to the episode and guest David Benaim.

[03:52] - David shares his unique global background and career journey from Deloitte to founding his own firm in Cambodia.

[07:00] - Discussion about David’s transition from working at Deloitte to starting his own business in Cambodia and the challenges he faced.

[14:38] - In-depth comparison of functions unique to Google Sheets, like “COUNTUNIQUE”, “FLATTEN”, and others not found in Excel.

[23:35] - Criteria and scenarios where Google Sheets is the better tool, particularly in collaborative environments and data entry tasks.

[30:25] - A look at the newly implemented table features in Google Sheets and how they stack up against Excel’s tables.

[38:54] - David shares his decision-making process for choosing between Excel and Google Sheets based on project needs.

[43:56] - Quick-fire questions where David shares his preferences on various Excel and Google Sheets functionalities.

[49:31] - Tips and resources for users looking to improve their skills in Google Sheets.

[50:47] - Final thoughts and how to connect with David Benaim.