VB Programing support Access Database Microsoft Office VB.Net & SQL Server nev@NevVB.com.au Sydney, Australia (612) 9453-0456 Contact Details 23/02/2012
Microsoft supply sample templates of small Access database systems that can be readily used. The software is easily set up and works well, although with limited functionality. An Access database can be created without the complexity of Visual Basic programming, or any knowledge of how a relational database works. This is the start of many a company's administration system – and explains why problems inevitably arise.
Macros, Tables, Forms, Queries, Modules, Reports and odd bits of coding are introduced willy-nilly. The limitations of the ad hoc design, the limitations of inexperienced programmers, complexity and higher volumes will finally take their toll. The database system becomes error ridden, unfriendly to the users and costly to maintain or enhance.
And the final blow occurs when a new release of Microsoft Access requires revision of the underlying logic.
Over many years a large investment in time, resources and effort will have been put into the Access database system. The system, however unmaintainable, cannot just be thrown away.
Management is faced with creating a new system, and somehow coping with the old system for an extended period of time. Or evolving the current system by fixing the major issues.
A strategic plan needs to be agreed and put into effect, to gradually evolve to a more professional structure. What is required is a database system that can be readily maintained and support the ongoing administration requirements of a growing company and its users.
Here are the steps that typically need to be taken:
And of course, all the changes must be thoroughly tested.
All of this will stabilise the Access database system, and may be the starting point for adding further functionality. Or it may provide a sufficient safety margin of time for an alternative administration system to be built.
See also the note on Improving Access Database Systems