Training MODE

[pambroben]

I would like to add a "training" feature to my project.

My project is a Access 2016 split database on one computer with only one user logged on at any one time.

I thought of adding a user "training" which when logged on will take a snap-shot of the back-end, and restore it after logoff.

I would add a distinctive label, or perhaps change the background colour, of every form and report to alert the user the real data is protected, while in training mode.

I have a couple of problems:
1. How to get a copy of the BE when it is already open
2. Returning the BE to the real one is absolutely critical, and has to be handled very carefully.

I have searched the web for ideas, but have been swamped with offers of Access Training, which is not quite what I want.

Any thoughts on how to approach this would be gratefully appreciated.

Cheers,

 

[Ranman256]

I have 2 Backends. 1 production,1 test.
Either give a FE copy with only training tables,
Or like I do,
My FE has 3 versions of each table:
TCustomers
TCustomers-Prod
TCustomers-Test

The app uses tCustomers,
I have code to choose PROD or TEST,
The code copies that version to the working table name.
Copy tCustomers-Test to tCustomers
Etc, for every table.

 

[June7]

I agree should be 2 separate BE files. Code can change table links.

 

[Pat Hartman]

In my case, I don't need a complete copy of the BE. The app where I provide this feature manages audits. One of the audits is designated as a training audit. The users have the option of restoring the training audit to its original values.

If you decide you need a completely separate BE, then adding a hidden label to every form that is displayed when the form is showing test data makes sense. I use the same technique so that I can distinguish between test and production so that I don't accidentally change production data when I am testing.

 

[pambroben]

Thanks everyone.

I do prefer to use two separate BE files, as I would really like to protect the main copy.

The steps are:

1. Normal user logs on, and at logoff, a copy of the BE is copied to a different folder. (Also part of a backup routine)

2. when user "training" logs on I would like the app to point to that copied BE file [ and this is where I need some code].

3. "training logs off, and nothing changes as BE files go.

4. Normal user logs on, and app points to original, untouched BE.

That way, if disaster happens while "training" is logged on, the original BE is protected.

I have looked a few solutions to change linked files but they all seem overly complicated. This is a simple database with only 6 tables.

Cheers,