Determining number of users of split database

[cricketbird]

We have a database that is split. Every user has their own front end (installed via a .bat file so that the users always have a local copy of the most recent version), linked to a shared back end on a server. This seems stable and functional for us so far.

However, because our users are geographically separated, I don't actually know how many folks are using the database. I know the folks who contact me, but everyone in our company could use it if they wanted to.

For requesting funding, guiding future development, etc., I need to get some metrics:

• Total number of unique users
• Avg uses per day
• Total number of simultaneous users (daily, weekly, and monthly maxes and mins)

What is the best way to get this info? Write user info and a timestamp to a table each time a front end is launched? Are there tools for monitoring this sort of information?

Thanks,
CB

 

[MarkK]

Yeah, write the login data to table(s) in the back end. You can use the Environ() function with "Computername" and "Username" to identify the user based on their windows network credentials. Tools for monitoring this sort of information? Yeah-->MS Access.

 

[TJPoorman]

The best way is to write your own code rather than use an out of the box software, that way you get EXACTLY what you're looking for.

This link might give you some ideas though(http://www.fmsinc.com/products/admin/index.asp)

 

[cricketbird]

Thanks for the suggestions! That software looks absolutely perfect for what we want, and has way more bells and whistles than I would be able to program into the DB. It will take us months to get it approved and vetted, though, so in the meantime I guess I'll be hardcoding some logon data!

CB