Frequently asked questions
Deckcell is an add-in for PowerPoint and Google Slides that turns pasted data into consulting-grade charts drawn as native, editable shapes, and adds layout tools, slide templates and deck checks in the same pane.
Product
What is Deckcell?
Deckcell is an add-in for PowerPoint and Google Slides that turns pasted data into consulting-grade charts drawn as native, editable shapes, and adds layout tools, slide templates and deck checks in the same pane.
Who is Deckcell for?
Management consultants, finance and FP&A teams, strategy teams and students: anyone who builds decks with charts and frameworks. See the solutions.
Are Deckcell charts images?
No. Bars, labels, lines and axes are native shapes. Curved areas such as pie wedges are a single picture behind them, because add-ins can’t draw free-form paths. The chart’s datasheet is saved with it, so it stays editable.
How many chart types and templates are there?
16 chart types, 6 smart elements, and 200 slide templates in 16 categories.
Can I edit a chart directly on the slide?
You edit charts in the side pane. Neither PowerPoint nor Google Slides lets add-ins put drag handles on the slide.
Does Deckcell use AI?
No. Charts and templates are drawn from your data and choices, the same way every time.
Platforms
Which apps does Deckcell run in?
PowerPoint for Windows, PowerPoint for Mac, PowerPoint on the web and Google Slides. A companion Excel add-in links ranges to charts.
Does Deckcell work on iPad or phones?
Phone apps for PowerPoint and Google Slides don’t run add-ins, so Deckcell isn’t available there. Support for PowerPoint for iPad is coming soon.
Does it work with my company’s PowerPoint template?
Yes. It inserts into the open deck using its theme colours and fonts, or your Deckcell style file.
What slide size does it support?
Charts and templates are placed for 16:9 slides in PowerPoint, because add-ins can’t read the slide size there. You can resize them afterwards.
Data and security
Where is my data stored?
Charts and their datasheets are stored in your deck. Excel-linked ranges and team libraries are stored on Deckcell’s server. Read the details.
Do I need an account?
No sign-in is needed. Excel links use a workbook code and team libraries use a team code instead of accounts.
Can someone with my deck change my Excel numbers?
No. A deck holds only a read code. It can refresh charts but never write to the workbook.
Switching
Can Deckcell open think-cell charts?
No. think-cell charts keep working in think-cell. Rebuild them in Deckcell from the same data.
How is Deckcell different from think-cell?
It also runs in PowerPoint on the web and Google Slides, and adds layout tools, templates and deck checks. think-cell is ahead on on-slide editing. Full comparison.
How is Deckcell different from Efficient Elements?
It adds data-driven charts and runs in PowerPoint on the web and Google Slides. Efficient Elements has more checks and master tools. Full comparison.
How do I get Deckcell?
Deckcell is in early access. Join the list and we’ll set you up.
Spend the evening on the story, not the formatting
Deckcell is in early access. Join the list and we’ll set you and your team up.
Join early access