Access Project

This week our Microsoft Access Project was due. This project was one of the most confusing projects I have ever had to work with due to the date that I have never used Microsoft Access before. I am glad I didn't wait until the very last moment to begin working on this assignment because I had to download Microsoft Access 2007.


Throughout the Access project I learned about creating tables, queries, forms and reports. I learned how to import external data files in multiple formats to one database and organize it. I also learned how to export data from a database in different file formats like .txt which is extremely easy to convert and one of the best formats to send documents in. I also learned that how to relate sets of tabular data and how easy it is to organize massive amounts of data by using Access. The biggest surprise to me was how professional the default tables and reports look without any customization.


The only fall backs to using Microsoft Access is learning how to use the program. I have never used the program before and it was quite hard to catch onto at point. However, once you understand how the program works the possibilities for organizing data are endless. Some of the ways to enhance the functionality of the database would be to increase security, insert user passwords to protect customers and to make better tutorial videos. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the Access lectures, but they were a little dated and it made it harder to learn some of the required techniques to complete the project and scavenger hunt. Increased security is a must for any programs in the world today, especially since these files organize and hold valuable information such as addresses, names, date of birth, etc. The program as of right now is extremely vulnerable to identity theft which spreads through the web like wildfire. 

In the end, I am extremely happy I took this course just because I got to learn the aspects of a program I have never used. Even though the project is over I am going to look into Microsoft Access Tutorials and learn all the ways of using the program. I have always enjoyed using excel for organizing data but I cannot wait to explore Access even further. Below I have included a sample of what a Microsoft Access Database looks like. 

Week 10: Clear

This weeks assignment was on Databases. When I first saw this topic I thought it was going to be a breeze. I am pretty computer savvy and I am a quick learner. Unfortunately, I have never in my life used Microsoft Access before. I watched all the lectures and did all the required reading for this section and was amazed to see how this new program worked. I am very familiar with excel and while learning about access I couldn't help but relate things back and forth.

The first thing that stood out to me in this section was the explanation of the differences in Data, Database and Information. I know a lot of people including myself have thrown those three words around interchangeably not even realizing they are completely different things. Data is a collection of unprocessed items. A database is where data is organized in a manner that allows access, retrieval and use of the data, and information is processed data. All three terms are connected but are not the same thing. 

I also learned a lot about the query language of databases. It's amazing that each query language has its own grammar and vocabulary. Also, I love how simple it is to learn the different processes of access like queries through the specialized wizards. Another interesting thing about this weeks topic was learning how Microsoft Access can be broken down into different types of information such as reports, queries, tables and forms. The way that access makes external data importation and exportation simple is another plus the program has to offer. 

Programs used to manage databases are called Database Management Systems (DBMS). Data is normally organized in a hierarchy with the smallest layer (fields) leading up to the biggest layer (files). In the business world I think that databases are extremely important. Time is money, and if your entire staff is spending hours on end looking through file processing systems at tons of redundant information then your company is losing money. Databases and a database knowledgable staff are essential for a smooth running of a company. Most companies have some form of database for organizing important documentation. Normalization, integrity, maintenance and security are absolutely crucial for the upkeep of a professional business.

The following is a tutorial I found on how to create a simple database. This tutorial helped me to better understand Microsoft Access because it was targeted at beginners and I have no experience at all. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPtXq-3qf6U

I am looking forward to doing this project I think it is going to be something new to try and extremely fun!