OrientDig: How to Efficiently Track QC Progress in Your Spreadsheet
Streamlining your quality control workflow through clear organization and real-time status updates.
The OrientDig spreadsheet template is specifically designed to bring clarity and efficiency to the quality control (QC) process for archaeological finds or collection items. By centralizing key data points, it transforms progress tracking from a cumbersome task into a simple, visual workflow. This guide explains how to leverage its layout for optimal record-keeping.
Understanding the Spreadsheet Layout
The core power of the OrientDig tracking system lies in its structured columns, each serving a distinct purpose in the QC pipeline.
| Column Header | Purpose & Data | Tracking Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Item ID / Lot # | Unique identifier for the artifact or batch. | Provides the fundamental reference for all tracking. |
| QC Photo Date | The date when detailed QC photographs were taken. | Creates a clear audit trail and helps monitor the time between processing stages. |
| QC Acceptance Status | Typically values like "Pending," "Approved," "Rejected," "Needs Review." | Offers an instant, at-a-glance view of the item's current state in the QC process. |
| Storage Time (Days) | Calculated duration from receipt or QC date until present or next action. | Identifies bottlenecks and ensures items are not stored excessively without action. |
| Notes / Actions | Space for specific rejection reasons, conservation notes, or next steps. | Adds crucial context to status updates, facilitating informed decision-making. |
Step-by-Step Tracking Workflow
Step 1: Initial Logging & Photo Date
Upon receiving an item for QC, enter its ID and the current date in the "QC Photo Date"
Step 2: Updating Acceptance Status
As the item is inspected, update the "QC Acceptance Status"
Step 3: Monitoring Storage Time
Let the spreadsheet calculate "Storage Time."=TODAY()-Photo Date). Regularly sort by this column to quickly identify items that have been in storage the longest, prompting review or action.
Step 4: Regular Review & Action
Use the spreadsheet's filter and sort functions to generate actionable lists:
- Filter for "Status = Pending"
- Sort by "Storage Time"
- Filter for "Status = Rejected"
- Sort by "Storage Time"
Tips for Best Practices
Use Data Validation
Apply drop-down lists to the "QC Acceptance Status" column to ensure data consistency and prevent typos.
Implement Conditional Formatting
Color-code status cells (e.g., red for "Rejected," green for "Approved," yellow for "Pending") for instant visual scanning.
Keep Notes Detailed
Always enter the reason for a "Rejected" or "Needs Review" status in the notes column. This creates a valuable historical record.
Schedule Periodic Reviews
Set a recurring calendar reminder to review and update the spreadsheet, ensuring the data remains current and actionable.