Worksheet guide3 min read
Context inventory: turn a file list into a useful relationship
One row connects a source to its use at a process step. Here is how to complete the Excel worksheet while keeping unresolved details visible.
In this article
“Sales—policies—SharePoint” describes a storage location. It leaves unclear which policy is meant, what it is needed for and who checks its use. The context inventory therefore starts with a single relationship: one source at a particular process step.
Download the context inventory
Excel · Blank inventory for 20 relationships, a separate demonstration example and instructions. Expandable, no registration.
Download Excel fileRead a row through the example
The separate example sheet uses fictional quote-approval data. It illustrates how the fields work together:
The first fields describe the use; the others make its state and ownership checkable. For your own entry, replace the general source location with an unambiguous link or document ID. A folder name alone is not enough.
Three entries that require judgment
One source used at two process steps may need two rows. The instruction can be the same while its use and responsible people differ. Conversely, grouping several sources into one catch-all row makes review and filtering more difficult.
“Business owner” should identify someone who is actually responsible, or a role with an unambiguous holder. If different people own the content and its use, make that distinction within the field or add suitable columns. The initial template provides one shared field.
Complete “Last reviewed” only after a review. The date someone entered a link is not a substitute. Under “Scope / version”, record the cases the source applies to and the content version intended. Leave unresolved details open.
An unresolved row can be the most useful one
The inventory sheet contains 20 blank relationship rows. You can extend the Excel table and filter by owner or open action. The example stays on its own sheet. Keep the working file in an agreed location to avoid independently maintained copies.
When a source changes, review where it is used. When a process changes, review the sources it uses. These two directions give the inventory its practical value. If the relationships later move into PULSE, agree on the authoritative location and retire unnecessary parallel maintenance.
The implementation guide shows how to work out the first relationships with the people involved. Start with a service handoff
Sources & further reading
- Felix Drösel: Prozesse hier, Wissen dort
Foundation for linking sources to their use and reviewing content and context separately; 2 September 2026. In German. The worksheet is NEXTHORIZN’s own working aid.