Since Access is a Microsoft Office product, it has been designed to integrate well with other products in the Microsoft Office Suite, Access is such a widely used database system that other software manufacturers are more likely to provide the ability to interface directly to Access than any other desktop database system. One of the reasons why Microsoft Access is consistently the database of choice is that it is a less expensive alternative to larger database systems, such as Oracle or SQL Server, which require a tremendous amount of set up and maintenance costs. Seven Key Benefits of a Microsoft Access Database Cost of Development Access can also overcome the limitations found when trying to manage large amounts of information in Excel or other spreadsheet applications. Microsoft Access is an information management tool, or relational database, that helps you store information for reference, reporting and analysis. Unsure of your Excel or Access Skills? Take our free assessment here> It’s very easy to make errors in a spreadsheet, which then makes analysis, summing and reporting very challenging. Spreadsheets are not ideal for handling hundreds of records when creating an important file for a client, a contact or an executive. Spreadsheets are ideal for creating one time analysis, they become problematic as the data grows and evolves over time. You can sort, filter and format the data quickly and easily. Excel is easy to understand and easy to use. Access, the Next Step from ExcelĪ spreadsheet program like Microsoft Excel is a terrific tool for maintaining and calculating small sets of information. Microsoft Access has a benefits above and beyond a simple spreadsheet allowing you to quickly analyze, extract and share data as usable information. Microsoft Access is Excel's smarter older sister who thinks she always has a better way. Editor's Note: This post was originally published September 2018 and has recently been updated and revised for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

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