I am considering using MS Forms as a tool to compile extensive data in a more user-friendly format than an Excel spreadsheet. This is not a traditional survey. I and one other person will be doing the entries. but a MS365 may not be needed

Dear @Mike B55

Thank you for posting your question on the Microsoft Q&A forum regarding using Microsoft Forms to streamline data entry compared to traditional Excel spreadsheets. 

To address your inquiry, Microsoft Forms can be linked to an Excel file, but it does not natively connect to an existing Excel table. Instead, when you create a form (via MS Form), a new Excel workbook is automatically generated and linked to that form. Responses are synchronized in real time.

If you wish to link a Microsoft Form to an existing Excel file, you can achieve this using Power Automate. This allows you to: 

• Automatically transfer form responses into a pre-defined Excel table. 
• Customize how data is mapped and stored. 
• Maintain your existing Excel structure. 

You can follow Microsoft’s official guide here: Setting Up an Automated Workflow Between Microsoft Forms and Excel 

Alternatively, if your use case involves manual data entry by only two users and you prefer not to use Microsoft 365 or Power Automate, a built-in Excel data entry form may be more suitable. Excel offers: 

• A simple form interface for entering, editing, and navigating records. 
• No need for additional services or automation setup. 

Let me know your preferred setup or if you need help configuring either solution. I'm happy to assist further.

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