SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Ensure spreadsheet integrity to enhance reliability 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
258878  Ensure spreadsheet integrity to enhance reliability 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Computer Sciences and Information Systems 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences Information Technology and Computer Sciences 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
This Unit Standard is intended for people who work with spreadsheets and for whom the reliability of the data produced is critical.

A person credited with this unit standard is capable of:
  • Setting up a spreadsheet.
  • Applying security.
  • Checking input data.
  • Checking formulas and totals.
  • Checking output data.
  • Auditing spreadsheets.
  • Validating and sorting data in a spreadsheet. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that the learner will be competent in the following:
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 3.
  • Communication at NQF Level 3.
  • Knowledge of GUI based spreadsheet applications. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
  • This standard is applicable to all spreadsheets.
  • Where wording is not exact for the chosen operating system or application, the learner can choose the equivalent item or option to demonstrate competence in the specific outcome or assessment criteria. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Set up a spreadsheet. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The purpose of the spreadsheet is analysed and stated to ensure a spreadsheet is the most appropriate tool. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The identity requirements of the spreadsheet are distinguished in order to ensure traceability and currency. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Identity requirements include but not limited to author's identity, version number and change history.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Properties are set in order to protect the integrity of the file. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Properties include but not limited to read only, track changes.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Conventions used are set out in a given scenario. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Conventions include but not limited to calculation methods, functions, styles and formatting (formatting to include dates, numbers, and codes).
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    A summary or index worksheet is created to help users navigate and understand the organisation of multiple spreadsheet. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    A basic understanding of the legal requirements affecting spreadsheet use is demonstrated through evaluating the impact of legal controls and access to information. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Apply security. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Security measures are applied to ensure the integrity of the file. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Security measures include but not limited to distinct spreadsheet versions are saved, backed-up and verified, strong password protection, all of mixed case, non-alphanumeric characters and length, different macro security levels.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Work is protected by including a password in order to control access. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Work include but not limited to workbooks, spreadsheet, rows, columns, cells, images.

    Protected include but not limited to open, modify spreadsheet, modify worksheet hide, unhide.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Changes are tracked in order to facilitate the sharing of files. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Security settings are changed and removed in accordance with user requirements. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Check input data. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Single instances of given constants are placed in separate cells to simplify calculations. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Constants include but not limited to conversion rates and tax rates.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Complex formulas are broken down into smaller components to enhance readability, comprehension and ease of updating. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Named ranges are applied to make formulas more manageable. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Manual and automatic calculation modes are used in accordance with a given scenario. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Units of measurement are made explicit to avoid calculation errors. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The value of precision display settings are examined to reflect their impact on readability. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Text files are imported into a spreadsheet and validated for correctness of data type. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Text files include but are not limited to fixed length and delaminated.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    The integrity of data is reconciled as complete, consistent and correct in accordance with external data sources. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Check formulas and totals. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The order of precedence in mathematical operations is checked and corrected to avoid miscalculations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Cell referencing errors in functions is identified and corrected to ensure the reliability of the spreadsheet. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Cell referencing errors include circular references, missing input values, missing precedent cells.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Formulas are substituted with array formulae to facilitate auditing activities. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Error functions are applied and error values are corrected in order to enhance the reliability of the data. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Error functions include but not limited to ISERROR and ISNA.

    Error values include but not limited to #DIV/0!, ####, #VALUE!, #NAME, #REF!, #NUM!.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Cross-totals are created as a way to validate calculations and increase reliability. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Formulas are audited to ensure reliability of spreadsheet. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Check output data. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Hidden information is revealed by changing certain formats in order to determine reliability. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Hidden information could include but not limited to hidden zero values.

    Formats include but not limited to font and background colour.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    An understanding of formatting decimals and rounding off is demonstrated by reflecting their differences. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Data is validated in order to ensure that the correct information was exported. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Data is presented meaningfully by choosing an appropriate chart type. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Charts are checked and corrected for orientation and data series visibility. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Chart features are used to enhance chart meaning. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Chart features include but not limited to axes, orientation, scales, titles, annotation.
     

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 6 
    Audit spreadsheets. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Spreadsheets are analysed for criticality, risk and potential business impact and to determine the review and control requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Spreadsheets are analysed to reflect the reasons why they should be submitted for independent review and approval before circulation. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Periodic review is discussed to reflect its need, purpose and impact. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The use of advanced features is assessed to ensure that the spreadsheet is constructed for ease of use. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Advanced features include but not limited to macros, pop-ups, comments.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The spreadsheet is reviewed for data-type mis-entry. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Data includes but not limited to text, numeric, dates.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Conditional formatting is applied to highlight errors. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 7 
    Validate and sort data in a spreadsheet. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Data validation is applied to data in a spreadsheet to ensure consistency and integrity. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Data validation includes but not limited to text length (must be limited to at least ten [10] characters).
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Validated data properties are edited in accordance with user requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Data validation is removed from data in accordance with changing spreadsheet requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Data sort is performed in order to organise information in order to provide breakdown summaries for ease of access. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Sorting includes but is not limited to ascending order, descending order, columns, months and weekdays.
     


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • An individual wishing to be assessed (including through RPL) against this Unit Standard may apply to an assessment agency, assessor or provider institution accredited by the relevant ETQA, or an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Anyone assessing a learner against this Unit Standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this Unit Standard or assessing this Unit Standard must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment will be conducted by the relevant ETQA at its discretion. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
  • Policies, procedures and requirements of the organisations.
  • Ethical codes of relevant professional bodies.
  • Relevant legislative and/ or regulatory requirements.
  • Nature of electronic information.
  • What are Data validation, security settings, functions, formula, mixed references and named ranges, data integrity.
  • Preserving documents.
  • Locations and functions of menu items.
  • Implications of application and formatting settings.
  • Relevant application packages.
  • Performance of all elements is to be carried out in accordance with organisation standards and procedures, unless otherwise stated. Organisation standards and procedures may cover: quality assurance, documentation, security, communication, health and safety, and personal behaviour.
  • Performance of all elements complies with the laws of South Africa, especially with regard to copyright, privacy, health and safety, and consumer rights.
  • Performance of all elements is to be completed within the normal range of time and cost that would be expected in a professional environment (e.g. In a commercial or government organisation). 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identifying and solving problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made when:
  • An error in a formula is traced in order to identify the correct data to be required. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, and community during:
  • Text functions are used to facilitate the formatting of data for reporting purposes. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organising and managing oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively when:
  • Lookup and Reference functions are used for retrieving data. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collecting, analysing, organising and critically evaluating information when:
  • Use formula, mixed references and named ranges to provide solutions to a problem. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written persuasion when:
  • Creating and editing scenarios. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others when:
  • Formula are displayed or viewed in order to ensure that the value required is accurately determined in a worksheet. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Demonstrating an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation when:
  • Manipulating data and ensuring integrity. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this unit standard was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    N/A 

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  61591   National Certificate: Information Technology: End User Computing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Academy at Vaal Triangle (AVT 
    2. Action for Blind and Disabled 
    3. Aspirations Communication Training CC 
    4. Atvance Institute (Pty) Ltd 
    5. Balefile Trading and Services 
    6. Bokamoso Skills and Economic Development Centre 
    7. College Africa Group (Pty) Ltd 
    8. CSL Accountants 
    9. Eagle Computer Training 
    10. Ekasi IT Solutions Centre 
    11. Ekurhuleni Artisans and Skills Training Centre Pty Ltd 
    12. Elangeni Training Institute 
    13. Elchees Software Solutions 
    14. Eshybrand Pty Ltd 
    15. EYETHU NATIONAL COMPUTER COLLEGE PTY LTD 
    16. Finweb Business Consultancy 
    17. Foster-Melliar (Pty) Ltd 
    18. Fourways Private College 
    19. Global Institute for Capacity 
    20. HAVOHEJ CONSULTANCY 
    21. Hazyview Computer College 
    22. HILLCROSS BUSINESS SCHOOL (PTY 
    23. Hlanganani ICT (Pty) Ltd 
    24. Ikusasalethu Youth Development Project NPC 
    25. Inqubeko Institute (Pty) Ltd 
    26. IT Academy 
    27. Jeppe College of Commerce and 
    28. K Boneng Consulting Services P 
    29. K Centre Business Enterprise (PTY) LTD 
    30. Loomee Group 
    31. Masakhane Training and Consult 
    32. Mogapi Education Group (Pty) Ltd 
    33. Moving Ahead Development Agenc 
    34. Musengavhadzimu Media 
    35. Natfin Holdings Pty Ltd 
    36. Ndulita Solutions 
    37. Polokwane Technology Institute (Pty) Ltd 
    38. Progressive School of Business 
    39. PRX SCHOOL TEST 
    40. QUARPHIX (PTY) LTD 
    41. Redefine Human Capital (PTY) L 
    42. Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology Pty Ltd 
    43. Rostec Technical FET College (Pty) Ltd 
    44. Sabile Human Resources Consult 
    45. SANDM IT TRAINING (PTY) LTD 
    46. Silulo Ulutho Technologies 
    47. Synergistic Covenant Network NPO 
    48. Techtisa (pty) Ltd 
    49. The Finishing College (Pty) Lt 
    50. Titan Trade Technologies 
    51. TORQUE TECHNICAL COMPUTER TRAINING PTY LTD 
    52. Varsity Institute of Science & Technology (Pty)Ltd 
    53. Wellinkwise Pty Ltd 
    54. Whitestone College 
    55. ZA WIT (PTY) LTD 
    56. Zealot Business College 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.