Importing data with Power Pivot
Power Pivot is an add-in for Excel that enables business users to create models using disparate data sources. Once the data is gathered, you can build PivotTables, PivotCharts, or Power View reports. For example, a user could import internal business data and mash it up with external data to create an analytical model to share with others in the company. Instead of requiring IT to be involved in building the solution, PowerPivot empowers users to go beyond requirements and actually build a solution. If the solution is required for the enterprise, the PowerPivot model can be used as the basis for the tabular model deployed to the server.
Getting ready
Before you can use PowerPivot for the first time, you will need to enable it in Microsoft Excel:
Open Excel and go to File | Options and then Add-Ins.
In the Manage dropdown, select COM Add-ins, and then click Go....
Select Microsoft Power Pivot for Excel and click OK.
You will now have a new menu option in Excel...