Appizy vs. Other Sharing Solutions
Last review or update: May 7, 2025
What are the key differences between Excel, Google Sheet and Appizy when it comes to sharing your spreadsheet.
When it comes to sharing spreadsheets, various solutions offer different features and levels of security. In this article, we will explore the key differences between traditional email sharing, Google Sheets, and Appizy, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each method. Here is quick recap table:
| Email Sharing | Cloud Platforms | Appizy | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tool Access | Send as attachement | Private link or account based access | Embed on your website |
| Formula Security | Weak password protection | Editor or Commentator access | Secure; formulas are hidden |
| Intellectual property | Lost after sending | Editor can duplicate the file | Retained; users see only output |
| Data privacy | Each user gets is own copy of the spreadsheet | Shared data over all users | Each user gets is own instance of the online calculator |
| Version Control | Impossible to track | Always up to date | Always up to date |
| Presentation | Spreadsheet format | Spreadsheet format | Customizable interface, embed seamlessly in your website. |
The Good Old Email
Emailing spreadsheets is a common practice, but it comes with significant drawbacks:
Easily Done, Quickly Lost Ownership: Once you send a file via email, you lose control over who has access to it. It can be challenging to track who has the latest version.
Lack of Version Control: You may not remember who has access to your file or which version they are using, leading to confusion and potential errors.
Weak Password Protection: While you can password-protect your files, this method is not foolproof. Weak passwords can lead to unauthorized access, risking formula and data leaks.
Risk of Alteration: Once unprotected, recipients can modify the original file or reuse your tool without your consent, which can lead to unintended consequences.
Google Sheets and Other Cloud Platforms
Google Sheets and similar cloud-based platforms have become popular for sharing spreadsheets due to their speed and accessibility. However, they also have their limitations:
Fast and Convenient: Sharing a Google Sheet is quick and easy, making it a go-to solution for many users.
Shared Access and Data: All users share the same sheet, meaning they can see and input data alongside one another. For example, if you were to share a mortgage simulator, would you want all users to see your personal information?
Spreadsheet Limitations: Despite its functionality, Google Sheets remains a spreadsheet. The look and feel may not be ideal for all use cases, especially when presenting to clients or stakeholders.
Appizy
Appizy aims to address the shortcomings of traditional sharing methods while providing a user-friendly experience:
Ease of Use: With Appizy, you can simply upload your spreadsheet and receive an embed link, making it easy to share your tool without hassle.
Ownership Retained: When you share your Appizy link, you maintain ownership of the underlying formulas. Users only see the interface and the output of the calculations, protecting your intellectual property.
Cloud-Based Access: Appizy is cloud-based, allowing users to access your tool from any device, including mobile phones and tablets.
Individual Instances: Each visitor has their own instance of the calculator, meaning they cannot see what other users are doing.
Conclusion
In summary, while traditional email sharing and Google Sheets offer quick and easy solutions for sharing spreadsheets, they come with significant risks and limitations. Appizy provides a more secure and user-friendly alternative, allowing you to share your tools while retaining ownership and ensuring user privacy.