Embodiments are directed to providing URL-facilitated access to spreadsheet component elements. In embodiments, a client may discover and then access elements of an existing workbook directly through a URL. In embodiments, a client may also provide, through a URL, value(s) for parameter(s) defined by the existing workbook. If value(s) are provided by the client, the workbook may be recalculated using the value(s) before a requested element of the workbook is returned to the client. In embodiments, the workbook is recalculated using a transient copy of the workbook, which is then discarded and the original workbook remains unchanged. Data changed in the workbook is automatically reflected in returned elements of the workbook when a request for such element is refreshed.