What does Microsoft distinguish?
Microsoft explains that defined print areas limit printed output. Its Excel for the web guidance also states that hidden rows and columns are not printed. The cited page distinguishes desktop and web printing, so confirm the application and actual output route used by the bid team.
Returnables Agency is independent and is not affiliated with Microsoft. This review concerns authorised submission content. Do not unhide and publish every internal worksheet or confidential pricing note merely to make a file look complete.
How should the release reviewer check scope?
Begin with the buyer-required response IDs and the approved final workbook revision. Check which sheets and cells belong in the submission, then open the actual PDF produced for upload. A print preview is helpful but does not replace that final-file check.
| Field | Record | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Required content | Response IDs and approved schedules | Agree what must be included |
| Print scope | Selected sheets and defined area | Check the entire required range |
| Visibility | Relevant hidden rows, columns or sheets | Resolve inclusion with the owner |
| Output | Actual generated PDF revision | Check every required response ID |
| Readability | Page breaks, headings and cell text | Check clipping and tiny scaling |
| Release | Approved files and upload evidence | Retain the exact submitted copy |
What does an omission look like?
Illustrative example. A fictional technical returnable contains required responses R-01 to R-08. Its saved print area ends at R-06. The reviewer finds eight approved answers in the workbook but only six in the PDF. The presence of a completed workbook did not prove that R-07 and R-08 were submitted.
The response owner confirms the intended submission range, the team regenerates the PDF and the reviewer checks all eight IDs and their complete text. If R-08 were hidden, its inclusion would still need review in the actual printing route. This example does not authorise exposing internal comments or changing the answers.
How does the team close the check?
Save the approved workbook and final PDF with their revisions. Verify all requested attachments in the portal using its actual receipt and final-file evidence. A successful upload proves neither the completeness nor readability of its contents.
Keep any missing response or contradictory instruction as a release question for the bid owner. Commercial commitments remain subject to the authorised review and approval process.
Common questions
What else should the bid team know?
Does a workbook with all answers prove the PDF is complete?
No. Compare the actual PDF with the required response IDs.
Should all hidden sheets be published?
No. Confirm the authorised submission scope and confidentiality requirements first.
Does a portal receipt prove the file contains every row?
No. It is separate evidence from the final content review.
Primary sources
- Print a worksheet or workbookMicrosoft Support