what is different between execl and planning analyst ?
Here is my opinion ...
Excel is a simple 2 dimensional spreadsheet that is difficult to share and maintain because if one person changes something it can become a synchronization and linkage nightmare, while having too high of a chance for an error (such as some hidden formula being changed by someone unknowingly).
Analyst is a powerful multidimensional cube that is easily shared through Contributor. Likewise, it really assisted us in homogenizing our Planning and Budgeting while not limiting us in the things we wanted to accomplish.