ACCESS/VBA TRAINING

[hmm2]

I'm trying to find a GOOD training course, preferrably in the Houston area, that provides in-depth instruction regarding database design, multi-user environments, security, VBA programming/customization, etc. I've seen too many programs and classes that only touch the surface of Access - utilizing it more from a USER standpoint than from a PROGRAMMER/DESIGNER standpoint. I've been using Access for about two years now, and I've basically taught myself everything I now know (designing custom databases, VBA programming included). I'm comfortable with Access, and I can manage to do (or figure out how to do) whatever I need, but I would like to get a more thorough understanding and be able to fit some of the various pieces of the puzzle together - if that makes any sense.

Any information anyone would be able to share would be MOST appreciated.

Thanks -hmm
-Using AccessXP

 

[raymondo]

I have the same problem except that I'm in France and not the US. I don't think you're going to find what you're looking for in a course. As you've already noted, they're pretty much designed for users and only skim the surface.
I've resorted to buying
Access Developer's Hanbook by Getz et al
and its companion
VBA Developer's Hanbook also by Getz and others
They're not exactly light reading but cover everything at great (sometimes too great) depth.
Personally, I find them invaluable as a reference source.
Hope this helps.

 

[hmm2]

Thanks, Raymondo. My next question was going to be regarding books/materials as you've described. I appreciate your input and will be adding to my library soon. -hmm
-Using AccessXP

 

[grnzbra]

The problem with a course is that they don't know what you know. Any course you get is either going to be a little over your head or a little below it. Perhaps if you find a training provider that has a series of courses you could start with a little below your level to bring yourself to some fixed level of knowledge (some things you're taught you will already know and some things you won't) then you can go from there. My last job sent me to a SQL server seminar from a company call AppDev (Application Development). You should be able to find their web page. They have access courses.

I like the books idea, myself, but ultimately, you need to get the experience of solving the problem. There is a lot of functionality in access and unless a problem comes up that needs it, you may never know about something. (In my case, it was the Space( ) function.)