Microsoft Access is a type of database software that is used to store information for reporting, referencing and analysis. With Microsoft Access, you can analyze large amounts of data faster and more efficiently than with Excel or other types of spreadsheets.

If you’ve been considering a database application for your business, or you’re finding that traditional spreadsheets just aren’t cutting it anymore, Microsoft Access may be just what you’re looking for.

Let’s explore some of the basic functions of Access and how they can help your business be more productive.

Short Introduction to Microsoft Access

Access is most popular for its tables, forms and queries. The database tables are similar to spreadsheets, so you shouldn’t have much trouble using the basic functions of the program. However, it does take time to learn the full features.

When setting up a database, you may list the subject matter of each column, just as you would with a spreadsheet, and add as many columns as you’d like. When this is completed, each row leaves room for more data input.

One feature that users really like is that they don’t need to finalize the tables manually. Also, Access has a query function that allows information to be combined from more than one table, and you can even specify the conditions. This saves a lot of time because you don’t have to look through rows and rows of information.

What Types of Things Can Microsoft Access Help With?

If you’re already using a spreadsheet application like Excel, you’re familiar with the benefits of organizing your data. But let’s look further into some of the specific tasks that you can perform with Access.

• Maintain all information for each client or customer, including addresses, invoices, payment and order information.

• Track financial data without needing a separate software program. If you have the full Microsoft Office Suite, you may even set payment reminders.

• Manage marketing and sales thanks to having all customer information in the database. Send out flyers, emails and coupons and track how customers respond. 

• Track production and inventory by entering data on shipments and also knowing when it’s time to order more of a particular product.

• Run reports and analyses using the reports and charts. You can basically run a report on anything within a matter of minutes, such as customers who are behind on payment.

We hope that you have learned a bit more about what Microsoft Access is and what it can do for your business. If you have more questions, give Arkware a call.