by noah | Sep 15, 2020 | Database, MS Access
Microsoft Access sometimes has a reputation for being too streamlined and basic. But it’s actually far more powerful than people realize. While Microsoft Access may not meet every organization’s needs, it can accommodate many. And it’s likely that you’re one of them!
Below are five powerful features of Microsoft Access that you should know.
1. It’s easier to understand than client-server databases.
Users don’t need any special training or experience to use Access. Some users have self-tutored themselves while others have learned from their coworkers. Either way, there’s not much of a learning curve thanks to the well-organized templates you can dive right into. If you’re comfortable using Excel, you’ll be comfortable using Access.
2. You can import and export to other Microsoft Office applications.
One of the most useful features of Access is the ability to import and export data from other programs. It’s also fairly easy to combine data, transfer data between two programs and store data over the long-term for future exports. To do this, you can copy and paste objects as well as export objects, which comes with more options.
3. Templates are available for immediate use.
The templates that Access comes with are pretty great. They can save an incredible amount of time by not having to build a database from scratch. Better yet, you can still make modifications to the templates to meet your organization’s needs. Both desktop and web-based database templates are available.
4. The ‘Tell Me’ feature will help you get the most out of Access.
Even though MS Access is user-friendly, you’ll probably still run into questions along the way. Fortunately, you’re not alone. Access includes the ‘Tell Me’ feature that works as an assistant to help you complete tasks efficiently. It was introduced in 2016 as a way to help users save time and do things quickly and correctly.
5. Output reports in PDF.
More and more users are sharing databases through electronic image formats like PDF by Adobe Systems and XPS by Microsoft. Using Access, all you have to do is create reports in electronic image files through the External Data tab on the ribbon. Even users who don’t own Access can view the reports in their entirety.
As you can see, Microsoft Access is a powerful database solution that has many new features. It continues to be user-friendly and cost-effective for businesses of all sizes. To learn more about creating an Access database, contact Arkware today.
by noah | Aug 19, 2020 | MS Access
Microsoft Access is a complete end-to-end database management application that is user-friendly and flexible for most businesses. You can use Access to build and customize databases, including forms, tables, macros, relationships and more.
One of the great things about Access is that you can start using the program right away. It functions similarly to other Office products and includes downloadable templates. In this post, we’ll explore five reasons to use Access templates and the benefits to expect.
1. Save time and effort.
It takes time to create a custom template, which is fine if you have it and want something specific. But if you want to get working right away, a template is a great alternative. Choose the one that meets your needs and it’s ready to use right away. Plus, the time you save can be put toward other tasks in the workplace, such as training employees or generating new leads.
2. Find templates that are specific to your business.
It’s easy to find templates that are specific to your business or task. For example, Microsoft offers templates for Event Management, Task Management and Inventory. We find that this works well for people because they’re sometimes unsure of what to include in a database. While you can find a great selection of templates on Microsoft’s website, third-party sites also have good options. (Note: Only download templates from trustworthy sources.)
3. Customize the templates to meet your needs.
All templates are customizable, allowing you to make the necessary adjustments to match your needs. You can add or delete forms, tables and more so that only the data you need is in your database. This will also give you the opportunity to learn how to use Access. While a background in programming is not necessary, some experience is helpful.
4. You’ll have the chance to explore the database.
Typically, when you download a database template, you’ll see a message that says Get Started. Click on the links to learn more about the database or click the buttons to explore the different fields. This gives you the chance to make sure the template is right for your business.
5. They’re free.
For the most part, Access database templates are free to download. This allows small businesses to start a quality database that supports their business while only having to pay for the Access program (which is also affordable). Only download templates from trustworthy sources, as you don’t want to end up with corrupted files. You can trust the templates that are included on Microsoft Office.
Arkware offers database management solutions for small and midsize businesses. If you don’t want to create a database from scratch but aren’t finding what you need through the templates, contact us for a custom solution.
by noah | Jun 24, 2020 | MS Access
With so many different databases – Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL – you may be wondering if Microsoft Access is still worth using these days. The Access database application was first launched in 1992. At the time, it was considered an innovative application at an affordable price. Today, things have changed. Powerful databases with endless features can be downloaded for free. So why use Access in 2020?
Believe it or not, the reasons for using Access are plentiful. Below we’ll cover why Microsoft Access remains relevant and useful for small-scale needs.
It’s comfortable and familiar for most users.
Here at Arkware, many of our clients use Access because it’s comfortable and familiar. Even people with little technical experience can use Access with no problems because it mimics the look and feel of other Microsoft applications. It also doesn’t require any special hardware or custom applications, and it can be used as a front-end to another database like SQL Server.
It supports multiple users at one time.
Another reason why Microsoft Access is still relevant is because it’s portable and flexible. Although it’s sometimes thought of as a single-user database, Access works well with multiple users. In fact, it’s a multi-user platform by default, supporting at least 200 users simultaneously. Users are able to copy and move data, which is helpful when starting new projects or replicating the database to other locations.
The database has a long-standing reputation and track record.
Even though some people claim that Access is dying, this is not the case at all. It remains one of the most popular relational databases, and many of our clients won’t use anything else but Access because of the perks mentioned above. With over 25 years in existence, it’s safe to say that Access has reliable technical support and a strong community.
It’s cost-effective, especially for small businesses.
Microsoft Access is a very affordable database solution. This allows businesses with small budgets to utilize a powerful database at an affordable price point. You can purchase Access with Microsoft 365 and also get premium versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint and others, along with services like OneDrive and SharePoint.
So is Microsoft Access still worth it in 2020?
The short answer is, yes, Access is very much worth using. However, it’s not the best database solution for all projects. This is why it’s important to have a database consultant like Arkware. It’s possible that you may be ready to upgrade to another database like Microsoft SQL Server for improved security, performance and growth. To learn more about your database options, contact Arkware today.
by noah | Dec 20, 2019 | MS Access
Whether you’re building an Access database for the first time or learning to work within a custom-built template, it helps to know the ins and outs of how the program works. There are many Access tips available online, but today, we want to focus on tips that are useful but rarely shared. The more you know, the easier it is to manage a successful database.
Below you’ll find five uncommon MS Access tips for 2020.
1. Keep Access database fields as small as possible.
As you build tables, make your text fields only as big as you need them. By default, Access sets up text fields to hold up to 255 characters. This is a lot of space that you probably won’t end up using. To avoid having all this wasted storage space, make your text fields the appropriate size.
2. Use number fields for real numbers.
Use number fields for real numbers, not for text numbers. For example, zip codes do not go in number fields. Software programs perceive a 60609 zip code differently from the number 60,609. The numbers in a zip code are digits, but they aren’t to be used for math and other numeric purposes. So, leave the number fields to numbers you plan on calculating.
3. Carefully delete Access field values.
Whenever you delete field values from a table, use caution. The reason for this is because you can’t recover the old value if you need to. Once you start doing other things, Access will forget about the value as if it never existed. Unfortunately, there is no Undo option available for an entire record. (Note: If you delete a value and realize you need it before doing anything else, you can do a quick Ctrl + Z.)
4. Backup your databases.
Backing up your database is extremely important. You can maintain backup copies at another location in case something happens at your place of work, such as a fire or flood. You can also store your backups to the cloud so they can be retrieved later. Here’s a great article on how often you should be backing up your databases and why it’s so important.
5. Ask for help – it’s not hard to find.
One of the great things about Access is that help is easy to find. As the most popular database in the world, you can find support online or from an Access programming expert. The important thing is that you ask for help when you need it. Small missteps can add up quickly and cause huge problems for your database down the line.
Microsoft Access remains a reliable database program for businesses of all types and sizes. If you need help managing your database, contact Arkware for a free consultation.
by noah | Dec 13, 2019 | MS Access
Microsoft Access has a number of templates that are designed for real estate professionals. You can use the template that is included with Microsoft Access or download one created by a third party. The benefit of using templates is that you can organize and manage your data without having to create a database from scratch.
For the purpose of this article, we will discuss the Real Estate template that can be downloaded directly within Access or from the official Microsoft website. This template allows you to manage your properties, buyers, sellers, prices and other information.
Where to Find the Real Estate Database
Go to the Real Estate template on the Microsoft Office template downloads page and click Download. Or, launch Microsoft Access and find the Real Estate template under the Business templates. Once the template is downloaded, you can open it on your computer and start entering data.
The best way to start filling out your database is by clicking New Property and adding your first property. Include the property ID, type, street address, city and state. We also recommend clicking Email List in the toolbar so that you can keep track of your contact list. Successful realtors keep their contacts nurtured.
Tips for Using a Real Estate Database
Successful business owners know that their clients are their most important asset. The same is true for your real estate business. Plus, it’s important to know that your relationships with clients don’t end when a home is bought or sold. It should continue on so that you have easier prospecting, qualified referrals and repeat business.
Here are some tips for using your real estate database.
- Connect with existing customers. It’s easier and cheaper to sell to existing customers. By keeping an updated database of your clients, you can begin the nurturing process. For example, are you having an open house? A pumpkin decorating contest?
- Gather new prospects. Realtors are often so busy working with current prospects, they don’t look for new ones. Fortunately, your website can gather leads while you’re out showing properties. A data-driven website collects user information that is then pulled into your database.
- Be a resource. Set up monthly or quarterly events so that people can come to you when they are interested in buying or selling. These events also keep your name front and center so that you can retain customers and increase referrals. Send event info to the contacts in your database.
- Send housing market updates. It’s also helpful to stay in touch with contacts by sending them updates on the housing market. Most homeowners are happy to see what’s selling in their neighborhood. Plus, by sharing this info, you will become a trusted authority in your local market.
Databases are a huge asset to real estate professionals. Microsoft Access is a great program to start with, as it’s easy to learn and familiar to most people. To have a custom real estate database created for your business, contact the database experts at Arkware.
by noah | Nov 20, 2019 | MS Access
Are you launching a new business? Good for you! This is an exciting time, though it may feel overwhelming until things get up and running. As you get closer to opening your doors, everything will need to be in place. This includes the database you plan on using. The good news is that Microsoft Access is an excellent database tool for startups, and you may already have it included with your Microsoft Office subscription.
Here are five reasons why we recommend MS Access to startup clients.
1. Affordable cost.
Access is very affordable and comes included with an Office 365 purchase. You can buy Office as a one-time purchase or pay a monthly fee. By paying monthly, a few extras are included, such as security and compliance, support and deployment and file storage and sharing. Whichever option you choose, Access is not a major price commitment. At least that’s one thing out of the way!
2. Quick and easy database setup.
Thanks to the wizards and templates included in Access, you can set up a fully functioning database in just a few weeks or less. It depends on how elaborate your database is and if you plan to connect your website to it. With less time involved in the setup, you can put your time towards other business tasks, such as marketing your new business and driving in foot traffic.
3. Lots of support available.
Microsoft Access has been around for a long time. It’s one of the most popular database platforms in the world, making it easy to find support. Whether you have a simple question or need to update your current database, you will be able to find help. Also, because Microsoft Office and VBA (Access’ programming language) are so widely known, support services are cheaper as well.
4. No coding experience required.
Speaking of coding, you don’t need a background in code to use Access. However, we do recommend having some basic knowledge of Microsoft Office and database creation, as this will help you build a smart and intuitive database. The good news is that you can hire a database company for a reasonable cost. From there, you can use the database without problems.
5. Scalable.
Lastly, Microsoft Access is scalable. Access has a reputation for being basic, but this isn’t necessarily true. Many large businesses use Access with no problems. However, if your business grows to store thousands of files, or you need hundreds of people to access your database at a single time, you’ll need to upgrade. Luckily, you can migrate the data to SQL Server.
Access is an excellent database tool for startup businesses. If you need help getting your database ready for launching, contact Arkware today for a free consultation.
