Our conversation turned to the issue of macros. My colleague's comment on this topic surprised me. It is our job to train managers, not programmers. I respectfully disagree with my esteemed colleague's opinion on macros.
Managers can benefit greatly by knowing something about programming in spreadsheets.
The ability to use a single programming language within a consistent development environment across multiple applications should help to leverage one's personal productivity by having to maintain and hone a single set of programming skills. As Microsoft's sole macro language, VBA provides this leverage. Microsoft has also licensed VBA to more than 100 independent software vendors who are integrating it as the macro language for their own products. Many of the spreadsheet tasks managers perform occur periodically or on a routine basis. The recent trend toward downsizing in the corporate world has left many managers having to do more with less, and left others in the role of self-employed entrepreneurs.