Creating a Simple Stock Sheet Template in Excel With Navigation Bar | Inventory Management

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to create a simple stock sheet template in Excel, complete with a navigation bar. This template will help you manage inventory efficiently, allowing for easy tracking and updates. Whether you're running a small business or just need a personal inventory solution, this guide will provide you with a structured approach to setting it up.

Step 1: Set Up Your Excel Workbook

• Open Excel and create a new workbook.
• Rename the first sheet to "Stock Sheet."
• Prepare additional sheets for different categories, if needed (e.g., "Sales," "Suppliers").

Step 2: Create the Stock Sheet Layout

• In the "Stock Sheet," set up the following columns:
  • Item ID
  • Item Name
  • Quantity
  • Price
  • Total Value
• Format the header row to stand out:
  • Select the header cells.
  • Use bold text and apply a background color.

Step 3: Add Formulas for Total Value

• In the Total Value column, input a formula to calculate the total value of each item.
• For example, if Quantity is in column C and Price in column D, the formula in cell E2 would be:

  =C2*D2
  

• Drag the fill handle down to apply this formula to the other cells in the Total Value column.

Step 4: Create a Navigation Bar

• Insert a new row at the top of your sheet for the navigation bar.
• Merge cells across the width of your stock sheet for a clean look.
• Add buttons or links for easy navigation:
  • Use the "Insert" tab to add shapes or text boxes.
  • Label them according to the sheets you have (e.g., "Stock Sheet," "Sales").
• Assign hyperlinks to each button that link to their respective sheets.

Step 5: Format Your Stock Sheet for Clarity

• Apply filters to your columns:
  • Select the header row and click on the filter icon in the "Data" tab.
• Use conditional formatting to highlight low stock items:
  • Select the Quantity column.
  • Go to "Conditional Formatting" and set a rule to format cells that are less than a specific number (e.g., 5).

Step 6: Save and Share Your Template

• Save your workbook as an Excel template for future use:
  • Go to "File" > "Save As" and select "Excel Template (*.xltx)."
• Consider sharing your template link if you want others to use it.

Conclusion

You've now created a simple stock sheet template in Excel that includes a navigation bar and useful formulas for tracking inventory. This template is customizable, so feel free to adjust it based on your specific needs. Next, you might explore advanced features like automated invoicing or integrating data validation for drop-down lists to enhance your inventory management system even further.