Education specific guidance 2

[Dausa67]

First I would like to say that TEK-TIPS rocks!!!
So here is my statement and question; I have taught myself (a lot from this site) how to use Crystal Reports. I am being looked to for creating reports. Most of these reports are way above my head but I am determined and I like a good challenge. My MIS department mainly uses SQL oracle so when I go to them for help, I do not understand what they are telling me in most cases.
I would like to become "the go to guy" for reports, tools or databases on all levels. I don't really want to get certified or a BS degree. I just want to study what I will use.
What specific classes should I take to better my reporting skills?



Clay

 

[RiverGuy]

I would suggest taking a Database Theory/Management/Whatever the college wants to call it - type class at a community college. Something that teaches the theory behind relational databases, normalization, SQL, and that uses a specific database or two for hands-on experience. I think understanding the data and structure behind your reports will be of immense help.

 

[CiscoGuy33]

Clay,

Like Riverguy said - start with your community college - most have their catalogs online as a PDF and they normally list ALL classes taught at one time or another and they will tell if the class has a pre-req etc.

If you see they have some classes you would be interested in, then check the schedule and see when they are offered and who is teaching them.

Once you have a name of an instructor, would be a good thing if you saw his/her name with several database classes, try to contact them to make an appointment to talk, they all have office hours at some time of the day or night or will respond to your email. Then talk to them.

If you like what you hear, sign up and start taking classes starting with the basic database design class and moving up to Access, SQL, Oracle and others, at the college I work we teach between 7 and 15 different classes about data bases, database programming or DB admin.

While you are waiting for the classes to start - get a Database for Dummies or SQL for Dummies etc. - I do this ALL THE TIME before taking a new class so that I have at least a basic understanding of what is being said in class!! Most of those books you can read in a few hours and at least have some understanding!!

Good luck!

E.A. Broda
CCNA, CCDA, CCAI, Network +