Crystal Ball Features and Benefits

What is the likelihood of reaching a particular goal? What are the critical factors affecting risk? The answer to these and other common "what-if" scenarios can be determined by assigning probability to unknown variables. Excel can't handle the complexity of probability analysis, so you need a better tool: Crystal Ball.

Download the Crystal Ball Datasheet

Crystal Ball automates the cumbersome "what-if" process using Monte Carlo simulation, by applying a range of values or a probability distribution to each uncertain variable.

The program generates random values from within the defined probability ranges, and then recalculates the model literally hundreds or thousands of times, storing the results of each "what-if" scenario. This timesaving process alleviates having to manually enter different scenarios over and over again.

> For a description of spreadsheet risk analysis, read our Risk Analysis Overview

"...I was able to identify a potential cost-savings of $2.8 million."
- Jeff Blase, Sprint Corporation

FEATURE	BENEFIT	SPOTLIGHT
Monte Carlo Simulation	Does: Calculates multiple scenarios of a spreadsheet model automatically (see our Monte Carlo description in our Risk Analysis Overview)
	Benefits: Frees users from the constraints of estimates and best-guess values
Distribution Gallery	Does: Provides an intuitive interface for selecting model input variables; includes 16 discrete and continuous distributions plus custom distribution
	Benefits: Simplifies the quantifying of risk, means you don't have to enter the distribution formula into Excel
Categories of Distributions	Does: Create predefined distributions, modify your existing distributions and organize them using custom categories
	Benefits: Create your own library of distributions, organized in categories. Re-use distributions from one project to the next
Publish and Subscribe Feature for Categories	Does: Publish categories and share with many users
Publish and Subscribe Feature for Categories	Benefits: Work as a team sharing models and data to get your work done faster
Process Capability Features	Does: Define spec limits (LSL, USL and Target) in your forecasts, calculate capability metrics and view simulation results and metrics together in one split-view chart.
Process Capability Features	Benefits: With capability metrics in Crystal Ball you simplify your workflow and better integrate simulation into your Six Sigma and Quality methodology
Forecast Charts	Does: Graphically display simulation results and statistics
Forecast Charts	Benefits: Allows users to track and analyze thousands of possible outcomes; charts are interactive
Split-View charts	Does: View forecast charts, descriptive statistics and capability metrics side-by-side on the same chart. Enable up to 6 charts and tables in one view
Split-View charts	Benefits: One chart tells the whole story
Sensitivity and Tornado Analyses	Does: Two separate methods for identifying the most critical model input variables	Sensitivity
	Benefits: Enable users to focus on high-risk model input variables	Tornado
Distribution Fitting	Does: Uses historical data for defining assumptions
	Benefits: Allows users to customize model input variables based on real-world results
Correlation	Does: Models dependencies between uncertain input variables
	Benefits: Provides more accurate modeling and forecasting
Charting and Reporting	Does: Automates report generation, includes the ability to overlay forecasts and to project trends through time
	Benefits: Creates clear analysis and presentation of all forecasts, improves communication with colleagues, management, and clients
Precision Control	Does: Provides advanced simulation capabilities
	Benefits: Increases simulation accuracy and flexibility; saves time
Latin Hypercube Sampling	Does: Alternative simulation method to Monte Carlo
	Benefits: Samples regularly across distribution, excellent for simulations with restriction on number of trials
Data extraction	Does: Exports data from Crystal Ball memory
	Benefits: Allows users to examine individual simulation results and transfer results to other software programs
CB Tools	Does: Macro-driven tools that use Crystal Ball; Includes scenario analysis, decision table, tornado chart, correlation matrices, 2D-simulation, batch fit, and boot strap > Click here to learn more about the CB Tools!
	Benefits: Automates modeling processes with effortless and powerful tools
Microsoft Certification	Does: Certified Excel macro provider
	Benefits: Eliminates security concerns

Immediate Benefits

Most Crystal Ball users will be proficient in under 30 minutes if they are familiar with Microsoft ® Excel. Plus, the award-winning documentation makes it easy for users to begin seeing the benefits almost instantly. Since the program is a fully integrated Microsoft add-in that seamlessly extends the power of Excel spreadsheet models, the functionality of Crystal Ball is just a few clicks away.

"Crystal Ball is an excellent teaching tool for spreadsheet simulation models and is easy to learn and use. I highly recommend it."
-- Liam O'Neill, Assistant Professor, Policy Analysis and Management
Cornell University

You stop guessing.
While everyone must take risks to succeed, blind risks too often lead to costly errors. Crystal Ball puts the odds in your favor by helping you choose the most promising calculated risks. Each time you perform a Crystal Ball simulation, you gain a richer understanding of the inherent risks.

"This software is the best tool I have seen for trying to predict future occurrences in a very uncertain time."
-- Steven J. Campbell, Managing Director, Nelligan Power

You have a competitive advantage.
With a Crystal Ball analysis, you know what your competitor does not: the probability of a particular outcome. Because Crystal Ball lets you quantify your risks, it can be a crucial tool for a successful negotiation.

"Your product made me a hero - my executive clients finally can use their computers intuitively to get to the meat of their business options."
-- Dick Willis, President, Decision Graphics

You break free from the limitations of spreadsheets.
Monte Carlo simulation frees you from the constraints of estimates and best-guess values. Why rely on a single, possibly misleading estimate when you can easily create and analyze thousands of potential outcomes? Plus, using Crystal Ball means you no longer need to create several spreadsheets to analyze multiple scenarios.

"Crystal Ball has changed the way my organization performs business and market planning."
-- Christopher A. Grier, Business Development manager, ConEd Nuclear Services

You know what matters.
With Crystal Ball's Sensitivity Analysis you will know which factors really drive results. You can focus your energies on the right problem and complete the analysis sooner with less effort.

You look sharp.
Smart decisions alone aren't enough. You need to communicate your decisions. Crystal Ball's graphics and reports are the professional way to show your clients, investors, and management that you thought of all the angles and made informed choices.

"We used a competitor's product and it didn't have the control or the reporting capabilities that were as powerful as Crystal Ball's. You can create the distributions visually and accurately using the wizards and reporting was a snap."
-- Vincent Lee, Carnegie Mellon University, GSIA

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