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Unbelievable, they reached the maximum number of columns on a spreadsheet (>16k) which caused the issues. I'm all for using what works in software, but this wa

Unbelievable, they reached the maximum number of columns on a spreadsheet (>16k) which caused the issues. I'm all for using what works in software, but this was obviously not well planned or designed.

rich_sasha 6y ago
Is there a source for this in the article? I couldn’t see it. A comment elsewhere pointed out that many people repeat the Excel story, but there are no primary sources.
- nirv 6y ago
  Apparently, The Telegraph[1] provides a bit more context with links to details[2]. Upd: BBC also updates on this subject[3] now, the facts will come later ("Investigation launched into coronavirus test error"). [1] https://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/2020/10/05/excel-error-led-16000-missing-coronavirus-cases/ https://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/2020/10/05/excel-erro... [2] https://twitter.com/standupmaths/status/1313055411285774336 https://twitter.com/standupmaths/status/1313055411285774336 [3] https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-54422505 https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-54422505
  - rich_sasha 6y ago
    Saw it too now, thanks for the sources!