update database from a URL?

[bel]

Hi,

How can I make a push-button-easy way for my client to update their local Access database from a text file published at a URL?

Ideally, I'd like to add a button to their existing Access interface (which is just a form that opens on startup). When they press the button I'd like this to happen:

1. a URL is called (e.g. http://www.website.com/data.txt)
2. the text file (maybe a CSV, SQL statement, XML or HTML file) is parsed
3. the database is updated accordingly

Can this be done in Access?

 

[Adrianna]

Are you just pushing a data update?

If so, are you sending only new data to append, data updates, or a combination?

Do you have access to alter their access database to create a form for them to process up import of data, are you HOPING to push it all from your end, or does your user know enough about the Access that you can rely on them to perform simple steps?

Search the forum or check out
Using Transfer Text

 

[bel]

At this point I was just thinking about updating existing records rather than inserting new records.

I can make changes to their database interface (e.g. add/edit a form, add a macro).

I was hoping to make it as simple for them as possible as they are not very Access literate. They can do simple things that they are used to doing, such as editing records via a form interface. However, I don't think they would be comfortable manually importing a text file then using it to update existing records.

What options/limitations are there for this sort of thing in Access? Do you have any suggestions?

Thanks, Bel.

 

[Adrianna]

Bel,
Why would you want then to update via a text file? Data validation will be risked and that will likely increase your rate or errors. I would suggesting finding another way to allow updated, even if it's through excel and you use data validation or macros to check the data types and input provided prior to upload. Then you can develop a module to run the import automatically. There should be a lot of information in this forum on Importing from Excel.
If not, then consider implementing other interface options to ease the burden of data entry or updates. For example, allowing users to reuse data from an existing record to create a new record or allowing users to select multiple record to do global updates. These forms can be unbound forms linked to the appropriate update or append queries, or bound in the case of individual updates.

Good Luck!

 

[Pat Hartman]

Try this article:
How to open documents from FTP site and save documents to FTP site with an Office 2002 and 2003 program