Yeah, what you’re looking for is not an enhanced spreadsheet program, you need a database program. Even if the Xcel file could be imported into MS Access, it would still need a lot of TLC where you would have to put parameters on those fields, like is it repeatable (Yes); index key to keep each character record unique. In fact, those files to create pull down menus, would be held differently. Relational database structure would be needed and the ability to go back to modify that record after time means after the 500 CDP is spent after its creation, it would need to be exported to be used in another database. In other words, the record needs to be posted. Given what I know about basic database design and working in the library field, a single library record for an item can go through 4-5 different versions of the different modules so that an item can be procured, described, have a location and a nicer looking display record for people to see. Maybe the character creator should be made using MARC21 standards, just kidding. 
With the gui of Access on top of it, IT would be so much easier to fill in if you could see what you’re putting in and being to create queries or filters would enable automated processes in the background so you can search your options. Even still, you need open text fields just because even if you state a drawback, you want to know what it pertains too.
When it comes to my website, I am totally gunshy into going into my own XML database that is created for me to hold all the information for our forums but that’s it for me. Relational database creation has just gone way too sophisticated for me. Whoever can make an app though for the character creator would get my eternal appreciation. ^.^
