CP035: on Solver, its story and future – Interview with Dan Fylstra

In the 35th session of Chandoo.org podcast, Let’s hear from Dan Fylstra, the creator of Excel Solver. I had the fortune of meeting Dan when I was in Santa Clara last month. I immediately asked him to be part of Chandoo.org podcast and he was kind enough to agree. So today let’s take a trip down the memory line, hear him talk about some of the fascinating all the early development stories of Solver, VisiCalc & Excel.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

• Introduction
• Early days of Solver
• Working with VisiCalc, migration to Excel
• What keeps Dan busy these days
• Advice for anyone planning to learn Solver & business modelling

Listen to this session

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Click here to download the MP3 file.

Links & Resources mentioned in this podcast

Dan’s website:

• Solver.com
• Dan Fylstra on Wikipedia

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

What is your solver story?

I have learned about optimization algorithms in 2000. It has been a love-hate relationship for first several years, but then as I started my own business, I now understand how relevant modelling & optimization skills are.

What about you? What is your favourite solver story? Please share it in the comments section.

Note: Dan’s image is copyright of computerhistory.org

Hello Awesome...

My name is Chandoo. Thanks for dropping by. My mission is to make you awesome in Excel & your work. I live in Wellington, New Zealand. When I am not F9ing my formulas, I cycle, cook or play lego with my kids. Know more about me.

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