Formatting .xlsx output

[KateC]

Here's the thing - I have a workflow split between 2 containers. I have to complete container 1, use output from that to obtain more data out of another db, and then use that additional data in container 2.  I have another output in container 1 (Summary) that writes to one worksheet in an Excel file, and an output in container 2 (Loan Level) that writes to another worksheet in that same Excel file. It works when I'm simply writing a new file. BUT I have a request to format the output (mainly putting amounts into currency format) so I made an Excel template.  Container 1 - the Summary worksheet - works great. Container 2 - I get an error saying Alteryx can't open the file. 

We have an issue where once you open an Excel file, even when you close it, Excel tells you it's still open unless you exit Excel completely. Maybe that's my issue? 

Can I format currency some other way so I don't have to mess with formatting the output to an Excel template?

[Hayden_McHan]

Try using a block until done tool to make container 1 output first and then container 2.

Another option is to make a custom macro that uses VBA to write the output. We have one our company uses internally. The reporting tools would be another option to try!

[KateC]

@Hayden_McHan The containers are not running simultaneously. I'm also macro illiterate. Thanks for the suggestions though! 🙂

[Hayden_McHan]

I've had issues where they weren't running simultaneously and it wouldn't output. The Parallel Block until done from Crew Macros could help or a block until done. Could you share the workflow?