  Virtual Reality (VR) can enhance the display and interaction of mobile
knowledge work and in particular, spreadsheet applications. While spreadsheets
are widely used yet are challenging to interact with, especially on mobile
devices, using them in VR has not been explored in depth. A special uniqueness
of the domain is the contrast between the immersive and large display space
afforded by VR, contrasted by the very limited interaction space that may be
afforded for the information worker on the go, such as an airplane seat or a
small work-space. To close this gap, we present a tool-set for enhancing
spreadsheet interaction on tablets using immersive VR headsets and pen-based
input. This combination opens up many possibilities for enhancing the
productivity for spreadsheet interaction. We propose to use the space around
and in front of the tablet for enhanced visualization of spreadsheet data and
meta-data. For example, extending sheet display beyond the bounds of the
physical screen, or easier debugging by uncovering hidden dependencies between
sheet's cells. Combining the precise on-screen input of a pen with spatial
sensing around the tablet, we propose tools for the efficient creation and
editing of spreadsheets functions such as off-the-screen layered menus,
visualization of sheets dependencies, and gaze-and-touch-based switching
between spreadsheet tabs. We study the feasibility of the proposed tool-set
using a video-based online survey and an expert-based assessment of indicative
human performance potential.
