TalkToExcel - Using a local LLM

TalkToExcel lets users control Excel with natural language—no formulas, no macros. Built with Kiro, it’s a local LLM tool that turns plain English into powerful spreadsheet actions instantly.

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Inspiration

In our work supporting complex design and manufacturing operations, we observed that project managers often struggled with existing project management tools. Task tracking was cumbersome, planning lacked structure, and overall efficiency suffered. This led us to explore how AI could be integrated into everyday project workflows to simplify planning and improve clarity.

As a starting point, we experimented with managing a simple dataset using natural language. That’s where Kiro played a pivotal role—helping us transform this concept into a working solution. The result was TalkToExcel, a lightweight interface that enables users to interact with Excel using plain language, making data handling more intuitive and accessible.

This initiative laid the foundation for a broader vision: building smarter, AI-powered tools that align with real-world project needs.

What It Does

TalkToExcel enables users to interact with Excel using natural language, simplifying data operations and reducing reliance on manual commands.

How We Built It

  • Built using Kiro Spec Mode
  • Designed with a modular, layered architecture that separates concerns and defines clear interfaces
  • Integrates a local LLM to interpret user input and execute Excel operations
  • Includes safety mechanisms to prevent unintended or harmful actions

Challenges We Ran Into

  • Interpreting user intent via LLM and mapping it to Excel commands using a template-based architecture
  • Initial limitations in supported Excel operations, resolved through configurable templates
  • Addressing security risks associated with executing potentially harmful Excel commands

Accomplishments We're Proud Of

  • Supports 23 Excel operations via plain English commands
  • Enables chart manipulations, including support for all chart types
  • Demonstrates the feasibility of natural language interfaces for structured data tools

📚 What We Learned

  • How to architect and implement local LLM-based tools with built-in safety mechanisms
  • Importance of modularity and clear separation of concerns in AI-integrated systems

🚀 What's Next for TalkToExcel

  • Expanding into a full-featured tool capable of handling complex Excel manipulations

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