Why did Microsoft change the "Edit Links" to "Workbook Links" in the Queries and Connections tab?

Anonymous
2023-09-06T15:04:07+00:00

You used to be able to see if the workbook had any external links from the paper clip icon- if it were blue, you knew there were links. Now the "Workbook Links" icon always shows a blue paperclip, even when there are no links, forcing you to open the pane to see if there are really any links. Changing data source in "Edit Links" was so much easier with the old functionality. The new pane is much more difficult to navigate. Please change it back!

Microsoft 365 and Office | Excel | For business | Windows

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  1. Anonymous
    2023-09-07T16:36:05+00:00

    Hi all,

    You are seeing the new Workbook Links task pane which is rolling out to production now.

    The old Edit Links dialog is still in the product - you can add it back to the Ribbon if desired.

    We will also link to the old dialog if the workbook contains non-Workbook links, e.g. OLEDB links.

    Two issues I see:

    1. Always Enabled Button.
      Good point about this killing the quick ability to see if the book has links or not.

    We matched the Web task pane design, but are listening to feedback.

    1. Pane vs. Dialog Ease of User

    The task pane is supposed to be easier and better for Workbook Links.

    e.g.

    We now have a Find feature to show you where the links exist in your workbook (a long running ask)

    We no longer have confusing choices that don't apply to Workbook Links or a confusing "status" check flow (we just show you the state)

    Can you tell us more details about what's missing/confusing/wrong with the Pane relative to the old Dialog?

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  2. Rory Archibald 19,140 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2023-09-06T19:35:13+00:00

    Ah yes, I see that on my home computer - my work one is on delayed semi-annual release, so it still has the Edit Links button.

    I have to agree, that is not a good change!

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  3. Anonymous
    2023-09-06T19:20:26+00:00

    Hi Rory...

    Thank you very much for posting a reply. I'm not working from the online version of Excel. Here is the version information from the Excel desktop app:

    Microsoft® Excel® for Microsoft 365 MSO (Version 2308 Build 16.0.16731.20052) 64-bit

    Best,

    Margaret

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  4. Rory Archibald 19,140 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2023-09-06T15:39:29+00:00

    I assume you are talking about the online version of Excel? The desktop version still has Edit Links.

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