[PLUG-TALK] Excel autocorrect threatens genomic research

[Rich Shepard]

On Wed, 18 Aug 2021, Keith Lofstrom wrote:

> Autocorrect errors in Excel still creating genomics headache

Not at all surprising. Excel also has its NFV (Net Future Value) equation
incorrect. Excel might also, like Lotus 1-2-3, use the population standard
deviation equation rather than the sample standard deviation equation.

The issue is fundamental and seen in environmental data, too: spreadsheets
used instead of databases. It is probably because Microsoft includes a
spreadsheet in Office, but not a database so users apply the principle that
if the only tool you have is a hammer (or spreadsheet) then everything looks
like a nail (financial numbers).

Data storage and retrieval, for genomics, environmental, and other
non-financial data belong in a database.

Rich