
A holiday sure to appeal to some people more than others. Spreadsheet Day commemorates the date that VisiCalc. The first program for personal computers, released on October 17th, 1979. Since its beginnings, Spreadsheet Day has grown to become a day for celebrating both the advantages and the aggravations of working with software.
History
The idea day came about on February 2010. The importance of spreadsheets in day to day business operations. By the following October, celebrations were underway.
All of it really began back in October of 1979. When the first spreadsheet program Visicalc, released for the Apple II, and the process of organizing and computing massive amounts of data became stream-lined and simple.
It was developed by Dan Bricklin of Software Arts. Then produced for distribution by Personal Software, and marked the transition of Apple II’s from a machine for computer enthusiasts into a viable tool for business.
What makes VisiCalc so important was its ability to be used on personal computers. Finally putting this valuable tool into the hands of homeowners and small business owners alike.
How to Celebrate Spreadsheet Day
It all begins with recognizing how ubiquitous spreadsheets are in modern life. Every business uses them to manage their books. Data for everything including names and numbers of members and much more. Following on the heels of that, you could take the time to learn how to use spreadsheets and design them for your own lifestyle.
While Microsoft Excel remains the most popular spreadsheet program out there. Individuals on a limited budget can take advantage of these powerful tools with free options like Libre Calc, a free version available as part of the LibreOffice suite.
They’re surprisingly easy to use, and can help you balance your budget, prepare shopping lists, keep track of important dates and people. Just about anything else your imagination can come up with. So take Celebrate Spreadsheet day as an opportunity to get your life organized!