Thanks to Google Sheets' recent update, those used to working with large files are about to see a major upgrade in data processing.
Faster Calculation Speeds for Quick Data Reflections
Using Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome browsers for your business means taking advantage of pivot tables, which summarize and organize spreadsheet data for better analysis, and conditional formatting, which alters cells, rows, and tables, to name a few. Unfortunately, the larger the file, the longer you have to wait for every action and process to be completed.
However, as of June 2024, Google moved from JavaScript to WebAssembly Garbage Collection for faster code execution. So whether you create charts or run formulas, expect higher sheet speeds despite file size and query complexity. Because the module constantly reclaims program memory, business and personal users can expect their spreadsheets to compute and run significantly faster.
Although this recent improvement is only available on Edge browsers, the Google team plans to make it available on Firefox and Safari browsers soon. The team also plans to improve sheet speeds by reducing load times, enhancing filter performances, and improving copy-and-paste features.
Gemini for Workspace for Starting New Sheets Effortlessly
However, switching to WasmGC for speed isn't the only improvement Google has made since it also introduced Gemini for Workspace. This Google AI assistant in a new side panel uses smart technology to pull and analyze data from business email accounts, documents, and other locations. It then uses that insight to help you or your employees build relevant Google Sheets or summarize their current ones.
When creating new spreadsheets with Google Workspace, you can also use Help Me Organize, where you put in a prompt and hit enter to receive a first draft as a jumping-off point. There are also pre-built tables for project or inventory management, so you don't have to start from scratch.
Easier Formatting Once Project Sheets Are Underway
The new upgrade doesn't find the necessary information and templates and organizes and formats pre-existing information in the sheet. For example, if you filled in a bunch of rows and columns and want to turn it into a table, click the format tab and scroll through the dropdown menu for "convert to table" for an appearance update.
Other new features it applies include color coding, dropdown menus, filters, and more. Moreover, it automatically formats future entries, so you don't have to adjust it to fit the current layout manually.
While some may not notice the updated speed and efficiency of the new and improved Google Sheets, those working with larger files, such as business owners like you, will greatly benefit. So, if you don't have automatic updates turned on, manually upgrade and reap the benefits today!
