Use-case recommendation

Best Format for Spreadsheet Data Export

CSV is a pragmatic default for tabular spreadsheet exports.

Recommendation

Define the default first.

CSV

CSV is universally importable by BI tools, spreadsheets, and ETL jobs.

text/csv

JSON

Use JSON where nested structure or schema metadata is required.

Files: 22

TSV

Use TSV when comma collisions are frequent in raw values.

Files: 9

Related decisions

Keep adjacent decisions one step away.

FAQ

Resolve the likely objections early.

What is the default format recommendation for this use case?

CSV is the recommended default format here.

How should teams validate this recommendation?

Use sample files and manifest endpoints to test compatibility and behavior before rollout.