What you'll accomplish
By the end of this guide, you'll have DataSnipper set up in Excel and running your first automated document match — replacing manual vouching (tracing invoice amounts from PDFs to your Excel testing population) with an automated process that takes 20 minutes instead of 3 hours.
What you'll need
- DataSnipper installed in Excel (datasnipper.com — firm license required; check with your manager or IT team)
- Microsoft Excel (DataSnipper is an Excel add-in — it does not work in Google Sheets)
- Client-provided documents in PDF format (invoices, bank statements, agreements)
- Your testing population in an Excel spreadsheet
- Time needed: 30–45 minutes setup; subsequent engagements are much faster
- Cost: Firm-level subscription (contact DataSnipper for pricing — typically licensed per firm)
How-To Guide: Automated Document Testing with DataSnipper
Step 1: Install DataSnipper
Your firm's IT team or administrator should handle the initial DataSnipper installation and licensing. If you have a license:
- Go to datasnipper.com and download the Excel add-in installer
- Run the installer with Excel closed
- Reopen Excel — DataSnipper will appear as a new tab in the Excel ribbon labeled DataSnipper
What you should see: A DataSnipper tab in your Excel ribbon with options for: Import, Extract, Validate, and a search panel.
Troubleshooting: If the DataSnipper tab doesn't appear after installation, check that the add-in is enabled under File → Options → Add-ins → COM Add-ins → check DataSnipper. If your firm uses GPO-controlled Excel, IT may need to push the add-in.