What is a database?
A database is a repository of information organized so that the contents can be easily managed, retrieved, aggregated, and analyzed.

The software used to manage and query a database is known as a database management system (DBMS). Top
Why a custom database?
A custom built database application is a DBMS that has been designed specifically for the needs of your organization or business. Pre-packaged software will not provide for all of your unique business requirements in the way that a custom application would.

A properly designed custom application can cut your process time by 50% or more. Top
What software do I need?
You will need Microsoft Access. You may already have Access if you own MS Office Professional. If not, you can purchase Access as a stand-alone product.
I design in MS Access versions 2007/2003/2002(XP)/2000, and can support Access 97. Top
Why MS Access?
  • It is easily obtained as part of the MS Office Professional suite
  • It is fast, consistent and reliable
  • It permits a user friendly interface while leaving the advanced user the capability to do ad hoc reporting
  • It can be used on local networks with many concurrent users
  • It is a stand-alone product - does not require any other program to run or use
  • It can be integrated with other MS Office applications
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What is Data Integrity?
With data integrity, your data conforms to certain rules that you apply during data entry. The program will notify the user if the data entered on the form does not comply with the validation rules that you have set, and will not allow the data record to be saved until it does comply. Examples of data validation rules are:
  • The data entered must come from a list of values that you supply, such as "low, medium, high", "red, green, blue", "NY, NJ, ND", etc.
  • The data must be in a certain format, such as xxx-xx-xxxx for a social security number, or xxx@xxxx.xxx for an e-mail address
  • A date must be valid (1/52/2007 is not valid), or be greater or less than today's date
  • The data must be within a size range (so the address will fit on the label)
  • The data field may not be left blank (contact name is required)
  • Duplicate entries are not allowed, based on one piece of data (contact name) or more than one (date and ID number)
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