compare name lists

[deo89]

Okay, I have 2 lists of names (lname, fname separate cells) for staff with
software at different points in the year. I need to compare the lists and
identify the differences. the catch is that lists come from different
sources, so Mike could be Michael and Jeff could be Jeff K. (middle initial).
I've gotten close a couple of times with some unique nested if's, match's,
index's and left's, but haven't quite gotten it right. Any help? Here a
sample of what data would look like. Thanks!

Jones Bob Jones Robert
Lind Mary Jones Michael
Smith Joe K Smith Joe
Young Bob Troy Mary

 

[Martin Fishlock]

Hi:

Trying to match names is really quite difficult especially in your situation.

The easy option is to request that they use employee numbers that would also
remove the chance of two people with the same name.

Other wise I would suggest you maintain an employee list and list each
emplyee with the the possible options.

You also get into problems with people with two first names such as 'Hans
Peter' or double surnames as in 'Smith Brown'.