When you run Worksheet Compare, the first step in the comparison process is to match rows and columns in the worksheets being compared. Rows and columns can be inserted, deleted or moved, so Worksheet Compare tries to identify these changes using one of three different methods:
- Identity
- Database
- Auto
You will need to choose one of these three methods. Your choice will be determined by the nature of the worksheets you are comparing. Please read the following descriptions so that you understand when it is appropriate to use each comparison method.
Identity
This method compares worksheets without any allowance for row and column changes. It would be appropriate to select this option if the two worksheets being compared have the same structure. That is, no rows and columns have been inserted, deleted or moved.
Database
Select this comparison method if the two worksheets being compared have a "database" structure. A worksheet has a database structure if it contains a single table where each row in the table has a unique label ("key") and each column in the table has a unique name ("field name").
Auto
You should choose this comparison method if neither of the other two methods is appropriate. The auto method uses a special algorithm to match up rows and columns in the worksheets being compared. It is possible that some rows and columns could be mismatched or not matched up at all. In this event you can refine how the rows and columns should be matched up by defining a set of rules that override the auto algorithm.
