Variable types
A variable gets its values from typed inputs, a formula, a data source, or a formula that reads another model.
Each variable gets its values from one place. That place decides which cells you can type in and which cells Eigenn calculates. Use this page to choose the right type for each row of your model.
The value type, such as Number or Currency, is a different setting. It controls how values show, not where they come from. See Format a variable.
Summary
| Type | Values come from | Can you type in a cell? |
|---|---|---|
| Input | You | Yes, in every period |
| Formula | The formula of the variable | No. You can give one period its own formula. |
| Data-linked | A data source in actual periods. The formula or inputs in forecast periods. | Only in forecast periods of a variable with no formula |
| Formula that reads another model | A Model.Variable reference in a formula | No |
Input
An input holds values that a person owns, such as Price per seat or Monthly churn rate. A new variable is an input with 0 in every period. Double-click a cell to type a value.
When a scenario other than Base is active, a typed value is a scenario change. The base model does not change. See Scenarios.
Formula
A formula variable calculates its value in each period, for example Customers * Price per seat. You write the formula one time for the variable. Its cells show results, and you cannot type in them.
To use different logic in one period, select that cell and press F2. Then type a formula for that period only. See Change an input over time.
Data-linked
A data-linked variable gets actual values from a data source, such as a transaction category, invoice actuals, or a Xero account. The Last actual date splits each row:
- In actual periods, the cell shows the source value. The cell is read-only and shows a small database icon.
- In forecast periods, the formula of the variable runs. With no formula, you type the values.
The Data column shows a source badge for each data-linked variable. Select Import actuals above the grid to add an Actuals section. This section holds data-linked variables for your transaction categories and issued invoices. See Link a variable to data.
Formula that reads another model
A formula can read a variable from a linked model, such as Headcount plan.Payroll. The values stay read-only in this model. To change them, edit the source model. See Use a variable from another model.