Easy way to lookup similar data

[LisaUK]

Hi all,

I am wondering if there is a simple solution to a problem I have. I have multiple spreadsheet data coming in from various regions which contains sales data.
I am trying to create summary reports of the data which with the help of some very kind people on the board seems to be almost done.
The problem I am facing is that each spreadsheet file that I receive on a monthly basis has a lot of data and each one has the same company name but inputted in different way for example:


CompanyName
ABC
ABC *

The above are the same company but one has an * next to it

DEF Limited
DEF Ltd

Again same companies one has ltd and the other limited next to it.

The task of fixing all the data so the companies are all spelt the same way is really long. I am wondering if any knows of a method which could fix this or if I have to create a master Vlookup, not sure what could be the best method, any ideas on this would be really appreciated

Thanks
Lisa

 

[VoG]

Perhaps a fuzzy lookup http://www.mrexcel.com/forum/showthread.php?p=955137#974873

 

[LisaUK]

Thank you for that, having a look at it now.


Lisa

 

[al_b_cnu]

Hi Lisa,

Bill Jelen has produced a very easy to follow video on FuzzyVLookup here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gl1jKyfOIBw

Follow the link in my signature for the latest version of the code.

 

[LisaUK]

Hi Alan,

Thank you for the link, looks useful.


Lisa