Technical data sheets - storage and reporting help 1

[bhanko]

I am responsible for developing a database that will house the content for our technical data sheets, then output the content into report form based on stock number request. My experience with Access is minimal, although I fully grasp the concepts. I have eight different product groups, for which the reports will have a number of similar fields (description, intended use, features, surface preparation, etc.), but I will also need fields WITHIN one of these fields that will have no similarities at all. I have created an Excel spreadsheet that charts my needs, and am looking for input as to whether this is the best approach to store this information, as well as HOW best to develop the database, form(s), and create the reports. I have no Access support at my company.

 

[jofarrell]

I would store all that information in Access, not Excel (If I misread you there I am sorry, but you shouldnt have to be bothered with Importing data if you have a database already) Design your tables, for example a table for products with a primary key field that will link to another details table for that product. This table would hold all the nitty gritty details such as description, amount and pricing for example.

You first have to decide what fields you need making sure that you dont create a lot of tables with redundant data.
I am not sure what you track so the number of tables and content of tables is yours to decide. The reports should be easy to create once you have a working database. Hope that helped.

Joanne

 

[bhanko]

Perhaps I miscommunicated my intent. I used Excel to only create a tree for my needs, but fully intend to utilize Access for development. As this was my first post, I thought perhaps it was possible to email the file to someone for review purposes.