Microsoft Office Access

Lack of training holding you back? For a scalable relational database solution suitable for SME use, Microsoft Office Access takes some beating. Few people harness the real power of Access, which lies in the relationships it is possible to create between entities and the graphical nature of the software that allows the construction of complex joins without any knowledge of SQL.

Access can be found in use in a wide cross-section of businesses, and in web applications using Windows servers. Our courses are tailored to the levels our clients demand. Introduction covers the concepts in database creation, including the terminology so many people find difficult to fathom. Out Intermediate course builds on this foundation, while the Advanced offers Form creation, Internet integration and a look at SQL statements to create more sophisticated queries.

Access 2000, XP and 2003 versions are offered; 2007 will be released shortly.

Introduction - Course content

Database Concepts

Database concepts and terminology
Exploring the Access environment
Planning and designing databases
Getting help
Closing a database and Access

Access Basics

Exploring tables
Examining queries
Exploring reports

Creating Databases

Creating a database
Using the table wizard
Working in design view

Working with Fields and Records

Changing the design of a table
Adding and deleting records
Finding and editing records
Sorting and filtering records Querying Tables
Creating and using queries
Modifying query results and queries
Using calculations in queries

Creating and Using Forms

Creating forms by using AutoForm
Using the form wizard
Using design view
Finding, sorting and filtering records

Creating and Using Reports

Using the report wizard and queries
Creating, modifying and printing reports

Importing, Exporting and Linking Objects

Importing Access objects
Exporting Access objects
Linking Access objects

Intermediate - Course content

Creating relational databases

Database normalising
Introducing relating tables
Adding referential integrity

Working with related tables

The lookup wizard
Changing lookup fields
Inputting data to related tables

Defining data entry rules

Using input masks
Setting a property
Setting a validation rule

Using advanced query features

How to join a table in queries
Creating a calculated field
Using an action query

Creating advanced queries

Summarise and group values
Create a cross tab query
Using a parameter query
Using an index

Creating advanced form design

Working with graphics
Working with calculations
Working with combo boxes
Working with unbound controls

Using advanced report features

Create customized headers and footers
Add a calculated value
Work with sub-reports

Advanced - Course content

Creating Advanced Forms

Designing a form based on joined tables
Automating data entry
Grouped control
How to improve the user interface
Designing sub forms

Macros

Create and run macros
Attach macros to events of database objects

Creating Advanced Macros

Create macros to provide user interaction
Create macros requiring user decision
Use Auto Keys and AutoExec macros

Exploring Access SQL

How to identify different clauses in an SQL statement
Writing SQL statements
Attach an SQL statement to database objects

Integrating the Internet

Work with hyperlink fields
Work with data access pages

Managing Databases

Work with database utilities to optimise resources
Secure data by database replication