3ds Max: Reference an Excel Spreadsheet to assign multiple Material ID values to multiple Objects

Hello, Looking for some input on how to reference an Excel spreadsheet into 3ds Max.  I have not found an example of this...  I want to assign materials ID values and create keyframes to multiple objects. I have a few scripts that are working for me, but I KNOW there is a smarter pipeline. Will pay for a script if anyone wants to take a shot.

The Project:

Create an animation to show population density change over time in a city model. So, each building will change color illustrating how populated it is. This is the animation to date.

http://vimeo.com/38049564

The Current Solution:

Each building object has a multi-sub object material applied. There are 100 ID channels that gradually change in color from white (ID 0) to purple (ID 100). To assign the keyframes; I select a building > run a script > the script prompts me to select a text file that contains my material ID values.  I have to do this for EVERY building and create a txt file for EVERY building because the values are different. The script that I am running is attached.

What I want to Create:

Select multiple objects > Run a script that prompts me for and excel spreadsheet. The object(s) will be assigned the Material ID values that correspond to the object name and column of values.  (see attached jpg of excel sheet)

I hope this is clear. Its actually a simple sequence of actions, I just to automate it and do less clicking.  Any input would be greatly appreciate.  Thanks in advance!