data retrieval class 1

[patriciaanne]

Hi- Doesn't look like this forum gets used much which is too bad.
I am putting together a workshop on data retrieval tools. It explores basic database concepts and then using both Excel and Access I am going to show them how to extract data via queries out of an Access database. I am looking for suggestions on any other data retrieval tools that you might have found useful. I am trying to make this an all encompassing class as the students will be from a variety of different companies although primarily from the financial/accounting end. I had hoped to demo crystal reports but the program is a tad expensive.
Any ideas are appreciated .. thanks.
Patricia

 

[clubwife]

Patriciaanne,

I agree with you that this board doesn't get used too often!!

The only items that I can think of is maybe to show them some of the database features in Excel. If most of your students will be from the finance world - they probably would love to learn more on Excel. How about moving data from Excel into Access - when the Excel file gets to big to handle.

Another thought that I had was to talk in length on composing search stings. Using the order of operations and maybe a bit on the SQL behind the Access queries.

Just a few thoughts... Hope it helps...

Elizabeth
P/T Trainer and Eternal Student...

 

[patriciaanne]

Thanks... that was the approach I was thinking of ... someone on another site recommended msquery and word also. I didn't understand what you meant by search strings though????

 

[Storyteller]

Hello patriciaanne,
Other data retrieval tools I have found useful are the following: Excel, Access, Crystal Reports, FileMaker Pro, Quattro Pro.

Once I get the data into a *.txt file format I am able to manipulate the data in a number of different ways. The reason I use FMP and QP is that sometimes the data is in a format that Excel cannot read.

Are you planning to show the students how to use functions() to clean up the data?

Good Luck,
Michael
Microsoft Office 2000 Master Instructor