What inspired this Wish List Request?
JMP allows users to organize columns into hierarchical groups using the column grouping feature. However, when a JMP data table is exported to Excel, the hierarchy is flattened and only the individual column names are retained.
As a result, users must manually recreate grouped headers in Excel to preserve the original table structure and context.
Please describe the new or improved feature or solution you would like to see.
When exporting a JMP data table to Excel (.xlsx), preserve column grouping hierarchies using Excel's native multi-row header functionality.
Suggested behavior:
- Detect column grouping hierarchies in the JMP table.
- Export parent group names as merged header cells spanning their associated columns.
- Export individual column names in the row below.
- Provide an optional setting such as "Preserve column hierarchy in Excel export", defaulting to Off for backward compatibility.
- Optionally expose the functionality through JSL for automation.
What would the value be to you and/or other users if this new feature is provided?
- Eliminates manual rework after exporting to Excel.
- Preserves important organizational and contextual information contained in column groupings.
- Improves JMP-to-Excel reporting and collaboration.
- Excel already supports multi-row merged headers, making this a natural representation of JMP's existing hierarchy structure.
Is this an external customer request?
Yes. Requested by Michael Risoer, Interfacial Consultants LLC.
Is there a competitive software package that has this feature or solution that we should be aware of?
Upon initial AI search (possibly, but not limited to):
Examples include:
- Python (openpyxl, XlsxWriter)
- R (openxlsx/openxlsx2)
- SAS reporting procedures with multi-level column headers
These tools support exporting hierarchical headers to Excel, helping preserve data structure.
Will this impact a renewal, expansion, or adoption at a customer, and does this put an account at risk if we do not address this?
Not currently tied to a specific renewal or expansion opportunity. However, it represents a friction point for customers who use JMP for data management and Excel for reporting or data sharing. Reducing manual post-processing would improve adoption and overall user experience.
Thank you @ryan_cooper to submit this request.
