Can I use iPad to enter excel inventory figures?

Question

Can I use my iPad to record excel inventory figures? I have excel on my Macbook Air and have Mavericks on it. But I use the iPad when I run around taking inventory. The computer is just too large and cumbersome to carry while walking around. I Want to add numbers to my excel docs whilst right on my ipad as I go through inventory.
Is there a way to get my excel doc into my iPad and open it to add numbers?
And, because Mavericks is now the system that allows iPad (ios) devices to talk to Mavericks on macs, isn't this supposed to now be doable?
And, woe is me if not yet at this time. If so, is there an Application some smart person created that will allow me to transfer from mac to ipad and back to mac and excel numbers I input?
Muchos gracias!

Answer 1

Assuming that the spreadsheet doesn't use macros or really exotic functions, all you should need is an app that can open and edit Excel document, of which there are a number of apps. Apple makes iOS versions of their own iWork apps (Numbers being the spreadsheet) that are available free if you purchase a new iOS device and that can be purchased separately for older devices. There are also 3rd party combined suites that cost less than the separate Apple apps. Ones often recommended include Documents 2 Go,  Quickoffice and Office2 HD. All provide ways to transfer documents between the iOS device and a computer, often multiple ways including through iTunes, iCloud, and/or services such as Dropbox.
If you can accept needing a network connection whenever you want to use the apps and have an Office 365 subscription, Microsoft has just released their Office Mobile app, though it has significant limitations. Or a server-based solution such as CloudOn might be an option for you.
Regards.