Access Creating Applications

Build and Maintain Practical Microsoft Access Database Applications

This practical training course gives you the fundamental skills needed to move from using Microsoft Access to developing and maintaining database applications. You will learn how to plan a database, organise tables and relationships, design forms, add controls and calculations, and prepare an application for everyday use.

Whether you need to create a new database or improve an existing one, this course helps you build a clear and reliable structure. You will develop practical skills for creating user-friendly forms, maintaining data integrity and reviewing database performance.

Access Creating Applications is ideal for people who:

• Are competent users of Microsoft Access
• Want to move from database use into database development
• Need to create new databases or maintain existing ones
• Have recently practised the skills taught in the prerequisite Access courses
• Have a sound familiarity with other Microsoft applications

To attend Access Creating Applications, you should:

• Have completed Access Essential Skills and Access Data Analysis and Reporting and practised the topics recently, or have equivalent Access experience
• Be comfortable using existing Access tables, queries, forms and reports
• Have a sound familiarity with other Microsoft applications

After completing Access Creating Applications, you will be able to:

• Plan a database application around clear information requirements
• Normalise data and create well-structured tables
• Build relationships that support referential integrity
• Create forms, combo boxes, subforms, option groups and tab controls
• Add calculations and macro-driven buttons to forms
• Create switchboards and startup behaviour for easier navigation
• Maintain, analyse, and document an Access database

Planning Database Development

• Define the purpose and scope of a database application
• Plan the information and objects the application requires
• Identify practical maintenance needs before development begins

Structuring Tables and Data

• Apply normalisation principles
• Create tables that support accurate data entry
• Review table design using Analyse Table

Building Relationships and Integrity

• Create relationships between tables
• Use foreign keys appropriately
• Apply referential integrity to protect related data

Creating Forms and Controls

• Create forms for entering and viewing data
• Add combo boxes and option groups
• Use tab controls to organise form content
• Create main forms and subforms

Adding Calculations and Automation

• Create calculations on forms
• Use the Macro Button Wizard
• Add practical form actions that support users

Creating Application Navigation

• Create switchboards for application navigation
• Set appropriate startup behaviour
• Prepare a database for consistent everyday use

Maintaining and Reviewing the Database

• Compact a database
• Analyse database performance
• Import data from other sources Use Database Documenter to review database design