Switchboards versus forms

[SusanW1]

Looking for opinions on using forms with multiple command buttons versus switchboards. I have been told different things and, most recently, that it is easier to use a master form. (I have found this easier, myself) Any advantages of one over the other?

Thanks,
Susan

 

[gusbrunston]

[tt]
Hi:

I prefer a Master Menu form (frmMenu). I've divided different categories of activities in different colored boxes. I could email you a snapshot if you'd like.

I looked at Switchboard when I first began to use Access, but quickly gave it up. But...some are Republicans and some are Democrats. Some like one thing, and some another.

There's certainly no disadvantage to a master menu form. Probably none with Switchboard either, just a preference. The master form is easier for me.

This opinion is worth exactly what you paid for it.[/tt] Gus Brunston An old PICKer, using Access2000.

 

[SusanW1]

Thanks, Gus. I will continue to use MasterForms as well. I think, from a maintenance standpoint, it is easier.

Susan

 

[SiJP]

I have to admit to using frmMainMenu as well, as I find handling VBA with these a lot easier than switchboards. My IT Consultant loves switchboards and our Main office application is navigated through these.. but ugh.. they're ugly and unfriendly IMHO!

 

[SusanW1]

Simon - I agree. Switchboards are ugly. "-)

Susan

 

[RobPotts]

Hi,

I persanly like swithcboards. Only one form is needed, and then the rest is controled through the switchboard table and VB. Also the design of the switchboard can be changed, just like any other form.

I was just about to start using forms because of the limitation of only 8 items being allowed , however I found the following thread and thought again
Thread700-174910

I have also just wrote a FAQ on how you can change the titles of each of the pages on the switchboard, instead of them remaining static.[Smarty]
FAQ181-2720.

As has been said its personal prefenece however
Hope this helps
Rob!

 

[dpimental]

It looks like you are back to where you started.

Some Developers like switchboards and some like to develop their own system of navigation.

One idea is not to limit yourself to either one.

Remember these are only aids to navigating around your database application, so remember your users and their needs.

If your the only user, do what you like.

You could use local url links to navigate.

You could use a combo box that selects the object type, and another combo box that is updated based on the object type. Then a command button to open your object.

You could use a switchboard

You could use a master form.

You could use something no one's thought of.

You could use a combination of things.

One thing useful about the switchboard is that it make adding references to forms or reports or utilities easy.

If you don't have many forms, no problem, if you do, this may be an issue.

When all is said and done, you might decide to do it the old fashion way, and Navigat By The Stars

David I'm Your Huckleberry!

 

[joe2kuk]

You are more limited with switchboard, I find that forms are also much faster as long as you use VB not macros