countif error

I have the a COUNTIF function used on one workbook which refers to another workbook, however I get the result #value! unless the other workbook is open - this is even if I chose to update links when I fist open the file.

Do all workbooks have to be open when using COUNTIF?

If I open the other workbook after my workbook with the COUNTIFs on has been opened then all #value! errors disappear and the correwct info is shown.

Yes, you could use SUMPRODUCT instead

=SUMPRODUCT(--([filename]sheetname!range=value))

Thanks for your reply. What does =value mean?

ARe you kidding? Didn't you use it at the start of your COUNTIF formula?