Query Results Layout--In Access Or Export?

[Reese]

What is the best way to customize the layout of query results? I'm working on creating a series of queries that will be merged into a union query as an annual report.

I'm only part way through creating the actual queries and how they will all merge, but before continuing I want to know the best way to make it readable. I'd like for some kind of layout similar to the Excel spreadsheet that I have attached.

Is there someway to plug query results into specific fields in an existing Excel spreadsheet when exporting? E.g. field 1 of the query goes into cell B5 of the first worksheet in the Excel document and field 2 goes into cell B6.

Or would it be best to create a report linked to the master query that I could then print?

If it's possible--and not too difficult--I'd rather the Excel route, since that's something that others can highlight & copy parts of, etc. If not, I could always print the report as a PDF, which would allow easy sharing at least.

Thanks!

 

[CJ_London]

If you prefer the Excel route, probably the simplest way is to use Excel to link to your queries as a dataset then use excel vlookups, index, etc functions to populate your report. You can then lock the worksheets down so they can't be modified - or what I do is export the 'report' worksheets to a new workbook as values for publication - this effectively removes the dataset and formula from the copy to reduce file size

 

[plog]

The best way to customize the layout of query results is to use a Report. A query is meant to have no formatting, its just a way to compile data. If you want to automatically generate a specifc layout, set up a report based on your query.

 

[Reese]

I'll look into your suggestion, CJ, but I have a feeling that the report would be easier. Honestly the main reason I would prefer the Excel is in the past that's what we've used for that kind of thing and I want to limit the "what's this new thing" reaction of the Board of Directors & other staff members.

 

[CJ_London]

I don't disagree - just following your preferences