Applies to: @RISK 5.x and Up

 

Iteration Step Feature Grayed Out in Data Window

Issue:
After running a simulation and opening the Data Window, the Iteration Step feature (shoeprint icon) may be grayed out, even though simulation data are displayed.

Causes & Solutions:

1. Workbook Changes After Simulation

   • Cause: The workbook was modified after the simulation ran.

   • Effect: Iteration Step mode becomes unavailable.

   • Solution: Run a new simulation without modifying the workbook.

2. Collect Distribution Samples Not Set to “All”

   • Cause: On the Sampling tab in Simulation Settings, the Collect Distribution Samples option is set to a value other than All.

   • Effect: Not all data needed for Iteration Step mode are collected; an error appears in the Data Window title bar.

   • Solution:

     1. Set Collect Distribution Samples to All.

     2. Run the simulation again.

     Note: Collecting all samples increases memory usage. You may want to temporarily reduce the number of iterations.

3. Duplicate Distributions in a Single Cell

   • Cause: A cell contains two identical distributions (same parameters and Risk functions such as RiskShift, RiskTruncate, RiskName).

   • Effect: Iteration Step mode cannot run.

   • Solution:

     • Move all but one distribution to separate cells and use cell references in the original formula.

     • Example:
       Original formula:

       =IF(something, RiskNormal(100,15), 2.1*RiskNormal(100,15))
       

       Revised using a helper cell (AH47):

       AH47: =RiskNormal(100,15)
       Original cell: =IF(something, AH47, 2.1*AH47)
       

       • Alternatively, simplify the formula without another cell:

       =IF(something, 1, 2.1) * RiskNormal(100,15)
       

     Note: Having multiple distribution functions in a cell is not an error. If Iteration Step mode is not required, your model can remain as-is.

Summary:
The Iteration Step feature may be unavailable if the workbook was changed after simulation, not all distribution samples were collected, or duplicate distributions exist in a single cell. Addressing these issues allows the feature to function correctly.