MS Access: Database Concepts

Instructor: Vicki Weidler

Assistant: Joaquin Obieta

Overview

• Become familiar with MS Access database terminology• Learn how to start MS Access, open a database & navigate

the software interface• Understand database objects & their corresponding functions• Use standard design principles to plan a database• Explore relationships between tables• Use Help options to find information on MS Access topics• Learn how to close a database & MS Access

Databases

• What is a database?• When do you use a database?• 3 main types of databases

Flat fileRelationalObject-oriented

Microsoft Access

A relational database management program that allows you to store, organize, and retrieve information in an effective manner.

Planning a Database

• What is the purpose of the database? • What do you need it to do?• Who will use it?• How many will use it? • When will they use it? (i.e. one at a time, simultaneously)• How will they use it? (i.e. desktop, server, web-interface)• Who will create it?• Who will maintain & modify it?• Who will do data entry?• Do you need to build in security measures?• Who will provide technical support for it?• What types of information need to go in it?• How will this be organized into tables?• How will these tables relate to one another?• What types of queries will you need to create?• Will you need to create any forms? How many? What kind?• Will you need to create any reports? How many? What kind?• Will you need to create any pages? How many? What kind?

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t assume every problem can be solved with a database • Don’t leave too long between reviews• Don’t spend too much time on the prototype• Don’t develop the database until you fully understand what you need it to do• Don’t develop the database until it is clear where all responsibilities lie• Don’t aid for 100% functionality first time around; use 80-20% rule• Involve all users in the database planning, design & testing• Has anyone else solved the problem? Don’t reinvent the wheel• Plan on an iterative development process• Use consistent database standards and naming conventions• Use consistent, universal coding• Use consistent viewing standards• Keep sufficient documentation; build into the database when possible• Tech support, tech support, tech support………..

Database Development Life-Cycle

DatabaseDesign

DatabasePrototype

DatabaseDevelopment

DatabaseTesting

DatabaseProduction

Summary

• Become familiar with MS Access database terminology• Learn how to start MS Access, open a database & navigate

the software interface• Understand database objects & their corresponding functions• Use standard design principles to plan a database• Explore relationships between tables• Use Help options to find information on MS Access topics• Learn how to close a database & MS Access

Independent Practice Activity

• Question #2: 3 types (tables, queries, reports)• Question #3: 5 fields and 10 records• Question #5: Database, Table, Data Value• Question #6: Table, Query, Report

•Resources•Questions & Answers•Evaluations•Thank You!!!

Conclusion