Saving Multiple Outputs to separate tabs in the Same Excel File in One Workflow

Question

I have a workflow that requires multiple outputs (currently 5) to separate tabs in the same excel file.  I have searched on here and it seems the best thing to do would be to add them to control containers rather than normal containers to stop the error 'The process cannot access the file because it is being used by another user' but I am still getting the same error.  All are set to 'Overwrite Sheet or Range'.  Any advise on what I could be doing wrong here please?  I have attempted at times and it has worked only to fail again when re-run.  Thank you

ChrisTX · Answer

If your multiple outputs have the same format, the solution from @Qiu works great.

If any Excel tab could have a different layout, you will need to use a batch macro. You can use the macro attached to this Knowledge Base article:

The Ultimate Input Data Flowchart

Community > Designer > Designer Knowledge > The Ultimate Input Data Flowchart

https://knowledge.alteryx.com/index/s/article/The-Ultimate-Input-Data-Flowchart-1583459854309

Control Containers writing to the same output file can still give write-contention errors.

Also consider adding a Like to this Idea:

Enhance options for Excel output

https://community.alteryx.com/t5/Alteryx-Designer-Desktop-Ideas/Enhance-options-for-Excel-output/idc-p/1243963

Chris

Qiu · Answer

@Sim1

We can simply use the feature "Take Table/Table name from the field" feature in the Output data tool, after formatting a output full path including Excel File name and Sheet Name.

https://www.thedataschool.co.uk/anita-longa/alteryx-fundamentals-input-output/