Excel and data import and export in PowerWolf software

Most tables in PowerWolf software include a function for exporting the displayed data. Users can therefore turn an operational list into a file that can be consulted, archived, shared or processed with other tools.

The export takes the displayed content into account and, depending on the procedure, can use the filters, sorting and selections already applied to the table.

This makes it possible to quickly obtain lists of customers, books, members, cases, shipments, animals, payments, deadlines or other data specific to the application.

Depending on the function and product, data can be generated in several formats:

• 📗 Excel XLSX, for structured spreadsheets;
• 📄 CSV, for exchanging tabular data;
• 🌐 HTML, for lists that can be viewed in a browser;
• 🧾 PDF, for documents ready to be archived or shared;
• 🔗 JSON, for structured data and integrations.

The available options may vary according to the table, report and software version used.

Export procedures are not limited to simply saving a file. When supported, the result can be:

✓ saved in the folder selected by the user;

✓ displayed in a preview;

✓ sent directly to the printer;

✓ generated as a PDF document.

In this way, the same data selection can be used as a digital archive, operational report or printed document.

The procedures may allow users to choose which rows to include, which columns to include and the order in which they are presented.

Filters and search criteria can also be used to produce a document limited to the required information, without exporting the entire archive.

For example, a list can be generated for a specific period, category, status, deadline or group of selected records.

In many procedures, users can customise the appearance of the document by changing elements such as:

✓ title and headings;

✓ font type and size;

✓ column widths;

✓ data alignment and layout;

✓ borders, bold text and other graphic elements.

The level of customisation depends on the selected format and the specific export or reporting function.

In addition to generic table exports, each software product may include dedicated procedures for generating specific reports.

These documents are designed for the relevant field and can combine data, totals, groupings, headings and information that would not be represented adequately by a simple table export.

Report availability depends on the software, edition and installed functions.

Modern Excel files with the .xlsx extension use the Office Open XML format. In recent versions, PowerWolf software can create these documents directly without starting or controlling Microsoft Excel through automation.

This reduces dependence on a specific Excel installation and makes it easier to generate spreadsheets even on computers where Microsoft Office is not installed.

📘 Microsoft documentation for Open XML spreadsheets

For generating and processing Excel spreadsheets, we also use ClosedXML, a .NET library that simplifies reading, editing and writing Excel files based on Open XML.

ClosedXML makes it possible to work with cells, ranges, worksheets, formats, formulas and styles through software components that can be integrated into our Windows applications.

🔧 Official ClosedXML documentation
💻 ClosedXML project on GitHub

To generate an XLSX export with recent versions of PowerWolf software, Microsoft Excel does not need to be installed.

The resulting file can subsequently be opened with Microsoft Excel or another application compatible with the XLSX format.

Some special functions or older versions may use different procedures; for this reason, users should always refer to the requirements of the specific software version.

Many organisations initially manage their data with Excel spreadsheets. As the archive grows, it may become useful to transfer it to management software with searches, checks, relationships between tables and dedicated procedures.

Import functions make it possible to load lists into the main tables, reducing the work required to begin using PowerWolf software.

Importing can also be used with exports produced by third-party software, provided that the data is available in a readable format and organised into consistent columns.

This facilitates the migration of customer and member records, catalogues, cases, members, animals or other lists without having to recreate them completely.

In more complex cases, it may be necessary to adapt the source file or prepare a specific conversion procedure.

Before importing an archive, it is important to verify:

✓ correspondence between columns and fields in the management software;

✓ correct format for dates, numbers and codes;

✓ presence of headings and required data;

✓ any duplicate or incomplete values;

✓ availability of an up-to-date backup.

A preliminary check reduces errors and helps produce a more organised archive.

Management and cataloguing of books, libraries and collections.

PowerBK page

Management software for clubs, associations, members, membership cards, activities and access control.

PowerCLUB page

Management software for gyms, fitness clubs and sports centres.

PowerFIT page

Software for cases, customers, documents, deadlines and professional activities.

PowerPRA page

Software for managing shipments, customers, documents and operational activities.

PowerSPED page

Software for breeders, boarding facilities, kennels, dogs and other animals.

PowerDOGs page

An Excel, CSV or PDF file normally contains a selection of information and is intended for consultation, printing, sharing or transfer.

The backup, on the other hand, must allow complete recovery of the database and the information required for the application to operate.

For this reason, exports should not be considered a substitute for periodic backup copies.

💾 Learn more about database backup and restoration

Exported documents may contain personal, administrative or professional information. They must therefore be stored and shared carefully.

It is advisable to limit exports to the necessary data, use protected folders, avoid uncontrolled transmission and delete temporary copies when they are no longer required.

Actual protection also depends on the procedures adopted by the organisation and the permissions configured on the computer or network.

Before using an export in another procedure, it is advisable to check the resulting file, especially when it contains dates, codes with leading zeros, decimal separators, formulas or special characters.

For imports, it is advisable to perform a test with a limited number of records and verify the result before processing the entire archive.

Our support service can provide information about the functions available in each product.