Announcing the new Microsoft Forms integration on desktop

We are thrilled to introduce a powerful new feature in desktop versions of Excel that is set to transform your data collection process. With the latest update, you can now create a new Microsoft Form directly within an Excel workbook, linking the form to the workbook seamlessly. This feature, previously available in Excel for the Web, is now available in the Windows app, with Mac support coming soon. 

GIF showing how to create a new linked form from the Excel desktop app

This new integration is particularly beneficial for users who frequently collect data from other people. By enabling the creation of a form directly from an Excel workbook, you can streamline the data collection process, making it more efficient and less prone to errors. Whether you are gathering survey responses, feedback, or any other form of data, this feature ensures that all information is centrally located and easily accessible. 

For example, consider a team working on a project that requires input from multiple stakeholders. Using this new feature, the project manager can create a form to collect updates and feedback, and all responses will be automatically reflected in the project’s Excel workbook. This eliminates the need for manual data entry and consolidation, saving valuable time and reducing the likelihood of errors. 

How it works 

• On the Insert tab, select Forms > New Form  

A new browser tab will open, presenting you with a blank form to customize according to your needs. Simultaneously, a linked table will appear in your workbook, ready to sync with the form. As you edit the form or receive new submissions, the linked table in your workbook will automatically update, ensuring that your data is always current and accurate.

After creating your form, you can access several other capabilities from the Forms menu:

1. **Preview Form:** This option will open the form in preview mode in a new browser tab, allowing you to see how the form will look to respondents.
2. **Edit Form:** This option will open the form in edit mode in a new browser tab, so you can make changes to the form as needed.
3. **Send Form:** This option will open the form in a new browser tab and show the dialog letting you send the form out to respondents and begin collecting responses.

Availability and System Requirements

The new Microsoft Forms integration is available to all Current Channel users running Version 2410 (Build 16.0.18227.20000) or later. You can check which version you’re using by going to File > Account. If you are using an earlier version, we recommend updating your Excel app to take full advantage of this feature. Mac users can also look forward to this integration in an upcoming update.

Feedback

We would love to hear your thoughts on this new feature! Please send any feedback and suggestions by selecting Help > Feedback.