I have read several messages in this group about the problem with DSUM and
matching the criteria values in that a criteria of "ABC" also matches
"ABC123".

Based on suggestions in the group, I tried using the SUMIF statements. But,
lo and behold, the same problem surfaces! Apparantly, Excel just plain
cannot tell the difference in values.

I agree with some other postings that the Lotus functions are MUCH more
flexible and useful. In fact, the ONLY reason I am attempting Excel is
because of a company standard.

Because of the volume of work we do that requires accurate criteria
matching, I would definitely use Lotus over Excel. This problem makes Excel
useless for us. If I could, I would recommend that our company use Lotus.