Tough one !

[aamara]

I have two columns of names where I want to compare significant changes took place on these names. For example, the first cell contains the name (Jack Welch) while the adjasent cell contains the name (Jack S. Welch). As this change is not significant, I want to accept it.

On the other hand, if the adjasent cell contains the name (Bashar Amara), then I want it to be highlighted as this change is considered as significant.

Is this possible ??

Thanks for help

 

[bk]

Excel isn't really that "smart". It can compare strings or parse them (such as using FIND, LEFT, RIGHT, MID, etc. functions), but it can't "think". So, I believe the answer is No.

However, if you can re-word the problem more specifically, with finite comparison choices, you may can knock out a major part of it.

 

[IvenBach]

Column A has Original_Name and B hase Possible_Modified_Name you could try
=IF(ISERROR(AND(FIND(LEFT(A1,FIND(" ",A1)-1),B1),FIND(RIGHT(A1,LEN(A1)-FIND(" ",A1)),B1))),1,0)
It is a bit ugly and nasty but will identify if you have a complete name change in first or last. Stick it in conditional formatting as needed and select your background color.Will this help?

 

[nbrcrunch]

perform a search on this site for "fuzzy"

 

[VoG]

This should help http://www.mrexcel.com/forum/showthread.php?p=955137#974873