Access accounting database available?

[Styler001]

Recently I've been using QuickBooks, but I'm not very satisfied with it.

For one thing, it's got alot more features than what I'll probably ever be using. But, the main reason I don't really care for it is that there are things that it doesn't seem to be able to do "automatically", and with Access I think I would be able to add a new query and reports that would work as I want.

However, I'd hate to go through the steps of setting up an Access database if someone already had one that they'd be willing to share here. I've seen some topics here from 2006 and earlier, so I didn't want to go back and open them up again in case they were irrelevant at this time.

It just seems that Access would be a better way to go since it could be (somewhat) easily added to or modified as needs arose.

 

[ajetrumpet]

It is a better to go, but if you want something sophisticated, you'll probably have to hire a programmer (unless you are very proficient with coding). I've never liked using QB, but that's probably because it does so much for you; there is little room to customize it. If I were you, I don't think I'd make the switch, especially if you would have to start from scratch.

The only thing you have going for you with QB is the fact that the data is easily accessible through the module-type interface. The HUGE downfall with QB, especially if you are dealing with an Enterprise version of it, is the fact that every little bit of financial information you can possibly get from the government is there somewhere. That makes for an incredible amount of redundancy issues.

I would go for the change if I were you, but I'd take your time, as it won't be an easy feat!

 

[boblarson]

Here's another option (I've been using the 2007 version):

http://www.ideawins.com/express.aspx

 

[gemma-the-husky]

if you want to create your own accounting system, you will need a good degree of both coding and accounting experience. One important area is robustness - if you are making something for yourself only, then you can design in the features you really need, and you will be in a position to fix the data if anything goes astray, so you can make a "lite" version

if its for other users it needs to be far more robust

it will definitely be more cost effective to buy a pre-built system such as QB or Sage - they will come with usability features etc, that you would find awkward to emulate, and will be far less expensive

however, as an example of your time investment, i designed my own Nominal ledger (general ledger) with far better facilities than any commercial system, (but without some of the bells and whistles such as user llogins etc), in about 2 days. (Including journal posting, stored regular journal postings, and auto reversing journals for accruals/prepayments etc, audit trail hostory) in about 2 days.

I also designed a really neat plant register/depreciation calclulator (which was for a client) in about the same time.

I think Sales Ledger/Purchase Ledger (receivables/payables) and stock (inventory) would be somewhat harder to do, although oyu may be able to find unlocked code examples as a starting point.

One final thing - I wouldn't touch payroll sytems - PAYE nad NI (UK) is very complex and best left to experts.

 

[Styler001]

Thanks for the suggestions. I guess I was being too optimistic thinking it'd be a breeze to whip up something in Access. I probably shouldn't try to do too much thinking when I haven't had enough sleep.

Thanks to Bob, too. I'll give that program a try, even though I hadn't wanted to purchase another one. At least they give you 60 days to try it out before you have to purchase a license.

I'm still open to trying someone's Access database out if they've got one working. I still think it'd be easier to modify one than having to stay with QuickBooks or jumping over to MS's version.

Thanks again.

 

[GaryPanic]

i have used and had input on access accounts d/base and I was impressed with is ease of use - built to do the purpose required. then i moved jobs and now using a "gerenal" system - and my opion of this is pretty low -

I offered to replace the whole lot with Access (not writing - just overseeing- espically with my english..lol) and gave an example of its functionality - which the users were suitable impressed by - management however had their heads up the arse and could not see the cost benefits

 

[Styler001]

Sorry, I wasn't able to tell exactly what the name of that program was, or if it was just an Access database. Could you please clarify and let me know where I might find it to try it out?

 

[Rich]

You don't really think you're gonna find a free accounting db that's any good, surely?

 

[Micromax]

I created an accounting db that runs on Access. But it's not free. Sorry, but it took me a long time and alot of work to create. I don't think I can post a link, but I will try o split it up. www.tradexaccounting.ca It is customized for Cdn sales taxes, but you may be able to change the labels on forms and reports.

 

[Simon_MT]

Personally, before you consider moving Accounting Solutions is ask yourself what does the package not provide? Or what functionality do not need to add. You can sometimes get around this by creating a bespoke element to a solution and then interfacing back into the Accounting system.

Simon

 

[dcartford]

Not sure if a database designed with MS SQL Server is relevant to your required specification of an accounting system. You may download the database file and get an overview of the database structure and ER model, by downloading the ebook from accountingdes.com.

Hopes this will help.

 

[Micromax]

Thanks for you help. I have stopped working on this project awhile ago. I will check out the ebook. Thanks again.

Robert

 

[Serr77ano]

I didn't want to go back and open them up again in case they were irrelevant at this time.