From v25.2, DataSnipper gives you control over how Snip references are handled when you sort data in Excel. Here are the key considerations, particularly in co-authoring environments.
Sorting options in v25.2 and later
When you sort a dataset that contains DataSnipper references, you'll be prompted to choose between two options:
Sort with references (but reset undo): All Snip references are updated so they continue pointing to the correct source document. Excel must clear the undo history, meaning you cannot revert to the previous sort order. Recommendation: add an index column to your dataset before sorting so you can restore the original order manually if needed.
Sort values only (keep undo): The undo function stays available, but Snip references may no longer point to the correct source. Recommendation: again, an index column is your safety net for restoring references to the right cells.
Co-authoring considerations
Sorting is more complex in co-authoring mode because DataSnipper can only maintain one correct state for references across all users.
In co-authoring, Excel allows you to see everyone's changes or only your own.
If you select "See just mine" and sort with references, your changes will update references for everyone, but other users' views may show incorrect links.
DataSnipper cannot detect which view you are using. The safest approach: always choose "See everyone's" before sorting with references in shared workbooks.
If you must stay in "See just mine", choose "Sort values only" to avoid breaking references for others.
Why these limitations exist
Snips are tied to cell positions in the workbook. Sorting with references changes those positions, and DataSnipper must rewrite the reference map. Excel's undo system cannot track those changes, so the undo history must be cleared. In co-authoring mode, Excel can show multiple personal views, but Snips can only exist in one consistent state, creating a mismatch that can cause broken links.
Best practices
Always add an index column before sorting, regardless of which option you choose.
In co-authoring mode, switch to "See everyone's" before sorting with references.
Once references are updated after a sort, they cannot be undone without re-sorting.
If you are on DataSnipper v25.1 or earlier, see the separate article on sorting limitations with Snips in Excel.