If you use financial data from a variety of sources, you know the problems caused by software incompatibility. When you have to convert the data, the process can be expensive and time-consuming. Sometimes, you'd like to use the data in a familiar spreadsheet program, but it's too much trouble to copy it manually.

Now, you can use any data that is stored in XML format in Microsoft Office Excel 2003. In XML, information is marked up with tags that define the information's structure and meaning. This means that information in your XML financial reports contains meaningful labels to help you quickly identify and use the data you need in new and innovative ways.

Use the following information and tools to help you understand the basics of XML and take advantage of its features in a familiar environment — Excel 2003.

• XML for the uninitiated (Article)
  Learn what XML is, how it works, and what it can do for you.
• View XML financial data in familiar Excel worksheets (Demo)
  See how you can use XML data in Excel.
• Analyze XML data in Excel (Article)
  Learn how to work with XML in your worksheets.
• Turn around expense reports in a snap with Excel 2003 and XML (Article)
  Learn how to complete company expense reports with ease.