Hi all
If anyone has time to look at this plan and give their 2 cents I would much appreciate it. I am expecting there will be lots of problems with what I plan to do!
Background
I am looking to make a database (in part) to make creating word documents easier and quicker. Our current system involves data kept on spreadsheets and several MS word templates that we can fill in the blanks on. I am very new to access and partly using this project as a learning opportunity.
Aim
Make a system that can churn out individual reports based on the information selected on a form and make the system user friendly.
Proposed method
Form will be in tabular or datasheet design. Each row is a separate case and needs its own command button(s) to generate report based on individual row of data. A series of combo boxes on each row will pick the correct parts and paragraphs of text to added to the report (in a modular manner) and then the other data from the row such as data’s, text fields and numbers are then inserted into the newly made template....all with the click of a command button. Report then gets exported to word.
Alternative
Similar but with one command button. Tick boxes on each row select the items I wish to make individual reports on and then the command button generates all of them at once.
Less complex alternative
Using first method but aforementioned combo boxes are just for information and do not generate template. Only single combo box at the end will choose entire template but it will be a longer list.
Issues I know need to be figured out
1. I need to insert data between data that is already being inserted, e.g. if a drop down inserted "The quick brown ____ jumped over the lazy ____" I would need to find a way to insert data from text fields stating "fox" and "dog". In insert inserted into an insert if you like.
2. Exporting reports to word is slow and not friendly to new users, (particularly those who prefer pen and paper to computers. )I will need to design a way this can be carried out with a single button press.
Potential issues I think could come up
1. Complex task for someone new to this
2. Complicated combo system may be resource hungry and slow
3. Maintenance could be difficult and if I leave no one else will have to know how to fix it
My questions for everyone!
As new I'm expecting my plan is filled with holes..... Where am I going horribly wrong and if so, what are the better alternatives?
If this plan is viable how much of a problem are the issues I thought of or are they imagined?
And finally anything I have totally failed to consider?
If anyone has time to look at this plan and give their 2 cents I would much appreciate it. I am expecting there will be lots of problems with what I plan to do!
Background
I am looking to make a database (in part) to make creating word documents easier and quicker. Our current system involves data kept on spreadsheets and several MS word templates that we can fill in the blanks on. I am very new to access and partly using this project as a learning opportunity.
Aim
Make a system that can churn out individual reports based on the information selected on a form and make the system user friendly.
Proposed method
Form will be in tabular or datasheet design. Each row is a separate case and needs its own command button(s) to generate report based on individual row of data. A series of combo boxes on each row will pick the correct parts and paragraphs of text to added to the report (in a modular manner) and then the other data from the row such as data’s, text fields and numbers are then inserted into the newly made template....all with the click of a command button. Report then gets exported to word.
Alternative
Similar but with one command button. Tick boxes on each row select the items I wish to make individual reports on and then the command button generates all of them at once.
Less complex alternative
Using first method but aforementioned combo boxes are just for information and do not generate template. Only single combo box at the end will choose entire template but it will be a longer list.
Issues I know need to be figured out
1. I need to insert data between data that is already being inserted, e.g. if a drop down inserted "The quick brown ____ jumped over the lazy ____" I would need to find a way to insert data from text fields stating "fox" and "dog". In insert inserted into an insert if you like.
2. Exporting reports to word is slow and not friendly to new users, (particularly those who prefer pen and paper to computers. )I will need to design a way this can be carried out with a single button press.
Potential issues I think could come up
1. Complex task for someone new to this
2. Complicated combo system may be resource hungry and slow
3. Maintenance could be difficult and if I leave no one else will have to know how to fix it
My questions for everyone!
As new I'm expecting my plan is filled with holes..... Where am I going horribly wrong and if so, what are the better alternatives?
If this plan is viable how much of a problem are the issues I thought of or are they imagined?
And finally anything I have totally failed to consider?