Consultancy

We design and build databases in Microsoft Access and MySql.

1. Access databases

We combine Access database development and consultancy with training. Here are some reasons why:

• Relational databases are not just glorified spreadsheets
  To design and build a good Access database requires understanding of the relational model. Experience helps too. We feel it is essential that clients should understand the data underlying their applications and be able to develop and extend their databases themselves as their needs evolve.
• The database should work for you - not you for the database
  We like to give our clients a head start by inserting any existing data (in spreadsheet form, for example) into their newly designed database. We will then advise them how to manage the data and maintain the system.
• Databases are a long-term investment
  Any basic database design should be flexible, so it can adapt to changing needs. And no-one knows exactly what reporting they will need in the future, so we teach clients how to adapt reports and queries and create new ones.

Some of our Access 'training with consultancy' packages have had the following applications:

• membership databases
• contact management systems
• archive databases
• health records
• front-end to Sage accounts

2. MySql databases

MySql provides online database applications, dynamically accessed through web pages.

MySql (www.mysql.com) has been described as 'the world's most popular open-source database'. It is generally used in conjunction with the php scripting language (see www.php.net).

Some of our major MySql/php projects can be seen online:

• Members' Area and discussion forum (The Society for Nautical Research)
• Archive database of past concerts (The Chopin Society)

We have also implemented MySql databases for development projects or internal use for:

• The Navy Records Society
• The Food Angel
• The Newcomen Society