Search code examples
excelpivot-tablepowerpivotsolver

Is it possible to use the Excel Solver in combination with a Power Pivot table in Excel


I have tried to optimize the outcome of a Pivot table by using the Solver to modify the inputdata of the Pivottable. It seems to me this is not possible because the Pivottable is not updating automatically after altering the inputdata. So if the Solver starts changing the inputvalues, nothing happens to the outputvalues which the Solver tries to optimze. I also read this post which says - if I understand correctly - it is indeed not possible:

Can I use solver on pivot tables?

If this is not possible, I was wondering if it would be possible to use the solver in combination with Power Pivot tables? In that case I would start a course on Power Pivot.

Thanks. Marcel


Solution

  • I don't have enough reputation to comment so I will answer (isn't that backwards?) PowerPivot probably won't let Solver do more than Pivot tables did. I'd say try to reproduce the layout and looks of your pivot with sumproducts, sumifs, etc. Add binary variables for each field you were using in a filter/row/column. Then optimize that with Solver.