Database Perspectives Microsoft Access or Microsoft Excel

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Database PerspectivesMicrosoft Access or
Microsoft Excel

• Mark Snyder
• MSA Consulting Group

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SCANS-NBEA Guidelines

• Level 1-4
• Describe the purposes, functions, and common
  features of database software.
• Explain the meaning of common database
  terminology.
• Use database software to store, query, retrieve,
  and sort data.
• Use database software to plan, create, update,
  add, and delete records.

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Microsoft Access Database

• Integrated Office 2000 / 2002 Component
• Multi-Relational Table Database
• Requires Sophisticated Design
• VBA
• SQL
• ODBC
• Relationships
• Full Potential Seldom Used In School
• MOST Teachers Teach Wizards...

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Access Features Functions

• Six Direct Data Objects
• Tables Queries Forms Reports Pages
  Macros
• Two Automated Data Objects
• Modules Class Modules
• 1360 Active X Controls
• VBA Pegboard Toolbox
• DCOM and ODBC Compatibility
• SQL Front or Back End
• Do You Compact and Repair Regularly?

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Microsoft Excel Database

• Integrated Office 2000 / 2002 Component
• List-Based Database Not Relational
• Simple Design and Database Development
• DCOM and ODBC Compatibility
• Full Potential Seldom Used
• MOST Teachers Have NEVER Used It...

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Which One Should You Teach?

• Use Access For
• VBA Programming
• SQL
• ODBC Linkages
• Advanced Classes
• Integration Projects
• ERP or CRM Demos

• Use Excel For
• Intro to Database
• Elements of Data Design
• Records Management
• Business Record-Keeping
• Teaching Mail Merge
• Office Integration

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Final Analysis

• Access
• Feature Rich
• Relational
• Requires VBA
• Meets Objectives
• Time On Task
• 16 196 Class Hours
• Pass Database Test
• YES

• Excel
• Limited Features
• List-Based
• No Programming
• Meets Objectives
• Time On Task
• 2 14 Class Hours
• Pass Database Test
• YES