More about XLSM to XLSM (Spreadsheet converter)

What is an XLSM File?

XLSM (Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook) is a file format used by Microsoft Excel to store workbooks that contain macros. These macros are automated scripts written using Visual Basic for Applications (VBA), allowing users to automate repetitive tasks, perform complex calculations, or create custom functions in Excel. The XLSM format is widely used in business and finance environments, where automation and advanced data analysis are crucial.

Files saved in the XLSM format contain not only the workbook’s data and formatting but also the macros that make the workbook more interactive and functional. Due to the inclusion of macros, XLSM files are more powerful than regular Excel files, but they also require the user to have a version of Excel that supports macros in order to use the file effectively.

Why Convert XLSM to XLSM?

You might wonder why anyone would need to convert an XLSM file to another XLSM file. The answer lies in situations where you may need to save a workbook in a new version of Excel, ensure compatibility with a different Excel environment, or remove certain features while maintaining the integrity of the original file. Below are some common reasons for converting XLSM files to XLSM:

• File Version Compatibility: Excel frequently releases new updates, and sometimes older XLSM files may not be compatible with newer versions of Excel. Converting an XLSM file to a new version ensures that the file will be fully compatible with the latest features and functionalities of Excel.
• Backup or Archive: Converting XLSM files to XLSM can also be used as a method for archiving your files in a different format while keeping the macros intact. If you’re working on a project and want to preserve its current state without risking data loss, saving an XLSM file in a different version or location is a good practice.
• Optimizing Macros and Performance: If you need to update or optimize the macros embedded in your XLSM file (for example, improving VBA code performance), you may choose to create a new XLSM file to house the updated version of your work. This method keeps your macros intact while allowing you to tweak or improve the functionality of the workbook.
• Version Control and Updates: When collaborating with others or maintaining multiple iterations of a project, converting XLSM files to newer versions (or duplicating them to store a separate version) can help with version control. This is especially useful when different collaborators are using different versions of Excel, and you want to ensure that everyone can access the file with the correct functionality.

How to Convert XLSM to XLSM

Converting an XLSM file to another XLSM file is typically done to preserve all features of the workbook, including data, formatting, and macros. Here’s how you can easily convert XLSM files to new versions of XLSM or make backups of your current work:

• Using Microsoft Excel: The simplest and most direct method for converting an XLSM file to XLSM is to use Microsoft Excel. To do this:
  1. Open the XLSM file in Microsoft Excel.
  2. Click on “File” in the top-left corner and select “Save As.”
  3. Choose a location where you want to save the file and select “Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook (*.xlsm)” in the “Save as type” dropdown menu.
  4. Click “Save” to create a new copy of the XLSM file. This ensures that the macros, formatting, and other features are preserved.
• Using LibreOffice Calc: LibreOffice Calc, a free and open-source spreadsheet program, can open XLSM files and save them as new XLSM files. Here’s how:
  1. Open the XLSM file in LibreOffice Calc.
  2. Click “File” and then “Save As.”
  3. Choose “Microsoft Excel 2007-2019 (*.xlsx)” as the file format to save a copy of the file, or choose the “Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook (*.xlsm)” option if you want to keep it in XLSM format.
  4. Click “Save” to complete the conversion.
• Using Online Conversion Tools: There are various online tools available that allow users to upload their XLSM files and convert them to other XLSM files. While these tools are quick and easy to use, it’s essential to make sure the online tool respects privacy and security, particularly when dealing with sensitive data.

Step-by-Step Guide to Converting XLSM to XLSM Using Microsoft Excel

If you are working with Microsoft Excel and want to convert an existing XLSM file to another XLSM file (perhaps in a different version), follow these steps:

1. Open the XLSM file in Excel.
2. Click on “File” in the menu bar and select “Save As.”
3. Choose where you want to save the new file, such as a different folder or location.
4. Under the “Save as type” dropdown, make sure to select “Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook (*.xlsm).”
5. Click “Save” to create a new copy of the file with the same macros, formulas, and data.

Benefits of Converting XLSM to XLSM

Converting an XLSM file to another XLSM file provides several advantages:

• File Compatibility: By converting to a newer version of XLSM or making a copy of your existing file, you can ensure that your file remains compatible with the latest version of Microsoft Excel and retains all macros and advanced features.
• Backup and Archiving: Creating a new XLSM file allows you to store a copy of your work as a backup or archive, ensuring that you don’t lose any valuable data, formulas, or macros in case something goes wrong with the original file.
• Improved Macro Performance: If you’ve made improvements to the VBA code or macros, saving the updated version as a new XLSM file ensures that your changes are preserved and ready to be used.
• Version Control: When working on collaborative projects or managing multiple iterations of a project, saving an updated version of your XLSM file can help with version control and prevent overwriting previous versions of your work.

Things to Keep in Mind When Converting XLSM to XLSM

While converting XLSM to XLSM is straightforward, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• File Size: If your XLSM file contains many macros or complex VBA scripts, it may result in a large file size. Ensure that the new file does not exceed the storage limitations or cause performance issues on the devices you use to open it.
• Macroeconomics and Compatibility: When converting or saving an XLSM file to a new version, be mindful of any advanced Excel features that may not be supported in older versions or might behave differently. Make sure to test the new file to verify that the macros and formulas work as expected.
• Data Loss Risks: When dealing with macros and automation, always back up the original XLSM file before making any changes. This ensures that you can revert to the original version if necessary.

Conclusion

Converting XLSM to XLSM may seem like a simple task, but it serves several important functions, such as ensuring compatibility with newer Excel versions, backing up your work, and updating macros or VBA code. Whether you’re optimizing your file, sharing it with collaborators, or archiving your data, converting to another XLSM file ensures that all your macros and Excel-specific features are preserved. Whether you choose to use Microsoft Excel, LibreOffice Calc, or an online tool, the process is quick and straightforward, allowing you to manage your XLSM files with ease.