Microsoft Access is nearly 30 years old but remains very much relevant today. Some businesses use Access for all of their database needs, while others keep it as a front end to more commercially successful database management systems like SQL Server. However you choose to use Access, you can expect a robust productivity tool that’s cost effective and easy to use. 

Below are the ten best features we appreciate about Microsoft Access. 

1. Modernized Templates 

Microsoft Access offers modernized and simplified templates that allow you to create beautiful databases without having to know computer code. Choose from a wide range of templates for inventory tracking, project management, customer service and more. Within minutes, you’ll have a database ready and working for you! 

2. Relationships 

A relationship in Access lets you combine data from two separate tables. In general, tables can be related in three different ways: one-to-one, one-to-many or many-to-many. Relationships not only create connections between tables but also help prevent missing data and quickly determine the results of a query. 

3. Primary Keys 

Primary keys are fields with value that are unique throughout a table. A table can only have one primary key. MS Access will either create a primary key for you when you create the table, or you can create your own. 

4. Backstage View 

The Backstage view is what you see when you open Access but do not open a database. We like this feature because users are able to perform a variety of tasks such as opening an existing database or creating a new one without having to leave the interface. 

5. Macros 

A macro is a tool that automates tasks and adds functionality to different database parts, including forms, reports and controls. Macros save time and automate tasks that you perform often such as opening and closing forms and running reports. 

6. Tables 

Access tables look similar to an Excel spreadsheet, but instead of having rows and columns, they’re called records and fields. Also, Access stores data differently than in a spreadsheet. One table is created to track each kind of information to avoid redundancies. 

7. Forms 

Another neat feature in MS Access is forms. Forms let you view, enter and edit data one row at a time. A form typically includes command buttons and controls to complete other tasks such as sending data to another tool. 

8. Reports 

Reports offer a way to view, format and summarize information in your database. For example, you can create a simple report of addresses for your contacts, or an inventory report for the holiday season. You also have the option to use sorting, grouping and summarizing data in your reports. 

9. Queries 

A query is a request for data results. You can use a query to answer a question, perform calculations, combine data and more. In Access, queries are very versatile and let you pull information from various tables and assemble it for display in a report. 

10. Modules 

One last feature that we love about MS Access is a module. Modules are collections of declarations, statements and procedures that are stored together as a unit. Modules are similar to macros in the sense that they provide more functionality. You will have to use the VBA language to write modules. 

Microsoft Access continues to be a reliable productivity tool for businesses. If your business requires MS Access, contact Arkware today. Our experts can help you make the most of the software so that your business can run most efficiently!