Abstract: Multi-dimensional data in a relational database is accessed via a conventional spreadsheet application program such as MICROSOFT EXCEL®. The database can be accessed to either read information from the database and write it directly into the spreadsheet, or read information from the spreadsheet and write it directly into the database, i.e., without the data being stored in any intermediary data storage structure between the spreadsheet and database, thereby enhancing operational speed. Predetermined metadata is used to relate database organization to spreadsheet organization.