Creating Help Systems

[AccessHawaii]

I just downloaded Microsoft's HTML Help Workshop to add to an Access database. I'm finding it confusing to work with but figuring it out somewhat. I tried testing the help file I made in the database by going to the main form's properties and entering the path the the help file in the "Help File" property and then entering the ID in the "Help Context ID" field and when I hit the F1 key, I'm still getting the standard Access Help menu. Does anyone know what I'm doing wrong? Also, does anyone know where I might be able to find a good set of instructions for the HTML Help Workshop?

 

[randysmid]

Hi,
Personally, I just use Microsoft Word for my help. I am easily able to link a Word document to a textbox or label on my forms. In fact, I created a sample database that shows this technique on my homemade menu form, as well as a Login security form. If you would like a copy, just send me an email. The zipped database is 2.2MB.

HTH,
Randy Smith, MCP
rsmith@cta.org
California Teachers Association

 

[AccessHawaii]

Thanks, Randy. I just sent you an e-mail. Your way sounds a lot easier than all the steps I'd have to go through with the Help Editor.

 

[psemianonymous]

I was going to reply saying basically the same thing: in-program help documentation is a very slick feature, but unnecessary for an Access application.

My philosophy on help documentation mirrors Secretgeek's:

http://www16.brinkster.com/messydesk/db/TechSuppDocs.asp

He gives some very quick, powerful advice on how to 'get the documentation done'. And it's true.

I've written a 60-page step-by-step for one of my applications (including screenshots, of course), and I swear no one read it (!!!). So his article was true healing.

Also, while you're there, check out his other (hilarious) articles.

 

[luceze]

Funny link foolio!

I like using built in help function with my access projects. However, I agree that HTML Help Workshop is confusing and Un-Userfriendly. I found a program called HelpScribble that I use to write all my Help documentation and it works great. You can download an almost fully functional trial version for free if you want to check it out.

HTH,
Eric

 

[Gazonice]

I have managed to hook up an html workshop .chm file to an Access Database.

It wasn't easy but it can be done - updates to the helpfile, index and keywords are very easy and quick once the thing is set up correctly.

Look here for more information:

http://www.tek-tips.com/viewthread.cfm?SQID=671363&SPID=764&page=1

Regards,

Garry

 

[losthorizon]

Do a Google search on 'FastHelp' which formerly was known as 'DotHelp.' It utilizes 'Microsoft's Help Workshop' to build 'help text' that can be tied-in to the 'F1' key function with some basic Visual Basic programming techniques. You may use 'Paint' to create your 16 bit .bmp graphic (illustrations) and even some (interactive) .SHG graphics (hyperjumps to other topic areas). Note that you may have to convert the 16 bit .bmp graphics into .gif or .jpg graphics (just temporarily, in order to properly re-size them) in order to re-size the graphics (to a smaller size, usually). Save the graphics in Paint as 16 bit .bmps. Save all of the graphics in one folder, deleting the (no longer required) .gif & / or .jgp files.
You 'Compile' your 'Help' file and copy the .hlp (HELP) & .cnt (CONTENTS) files onto your (mapped) drive. Your 'Help' text appears when 'F1' is clicked by the user!