In Microsoft Excel, users rely heavily on the Data → Outline → Group functionality to create hierarchical structures by grouping and collapsing rows and columns. This capability is essential for managing large datasets, improving model readability, and enabling structured drill-down analysis.

After evaluating Workiva Spreadsheets, it appears that no equivalent functionality currently exists.

Request

Introduce native support for row and column grouping within Workiva Spreadsheets, with functionality comparable to Excel’s outline/grouping features, including:

• Multi-level grouping (nested hierarchy)

• Expand/collapse controls for grouped sections

• Support for grouping both rows and columns

• Preservation of grouping metadata in version history

• Full compatibility with existing formulas, links, and dependencies

Rationale

Row and column grouping is a widely adopted capability across financial modeling, FP&A workflows, accounting schedules, reconciliations, and reporting structures. The lack of this feature creates several limitations:

• Reduced readability of complex spreadsheets

• Difficulty organizing large models without excessive manual hiding/unhiding

• Greater visual noise during collaboration and audit reviews

• Friction for teams transitioning from Excel, where grouping is a core productivity feature

Expected Benefits

• Improved usability for large and complex spreadsheets

• More efficient model navigation and review workflows

• Cleaner presentation of detailed schedules and multi-layered calculations

• Enhanced collaboration with internal stakeholders and external auditors

• Increased adoption and smoother migration from Excel-based models

Enabling row/column grouping would significantly enhance spreadsheet usability for advanced financial and operational workflows on the Workiva platform.

Thank you for considering this enhancement. I’m happy to provide sample use cases or workflow examples if helpful.