In shared database, can single report be shared? 1

[jjlogan]

Five years ago I created a shared database on network (tables are not split off) and still being used today (now in 2003 version Access). I have always used a separate query and separate report for each user. It's a pain updating the reports because I then have to copy/paste the changed report to each persons copy. Can I use a single query (feeds report) and single report for everyone in shared mode? Thanks for any information. PS - The duplicate forms are the same except for unique VBA that auto-fills name field in main table.
Jeff

 

[dhookom]

There should be no reason to create multiple similar copies of the same exact object. You can have a function that returns a name or other different value for each user and use it in reports or queries or whatever.

Duane MS Access MVP
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[jjlogan]

Thanks dhookom.
Your point about function to capture the user identity for vba use (I auto-insert user id in form textbox [Reviewed By]) sounds good, but what Access data is available on user. I do use a separate Access database to determine what users are currently logged into my main database - but this gives me a PC id and the code is very ADO-intensive with multiple connections.) Thanks for any steer.
Jeff

 

[dhookom]

I think you might be making this overly complex but I am not sure.

How are reports different? Care to share any examples? Are you using a basic API to grab the network login?

Do you realize that when a user loads a report into memory, it isn't the same report instance that another user loads into memory? If your users make design changes and save them then sharing an MDB would be an issue.

You should really separate your application into a front and back end solution.

Duane MS Access MVP
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[jjlogan]

dhookom,
I see the point now that the report can be shared (no duplicates needed); and your point about the report's instance on each user's machine being different really cemented by understanding; I also tested it today after the post - OK.
The 2nd issue is the form - same form (design) for all users except in the vba behind form I distinguish each user's form with his/her own initials they want auto-inserted into a field when the form is being used to update records. Your question about basic API - I am not using any API functions in vba; each person simply opens "their" own copy of the Access form. Sounds like there is way to get user id on login - but I need to pass on with the form (instance) the user id so they get automation with their own initials.
Jeff

 

[dhookom]

You can use the API at

http://www.mvps.org/access/api/api0008.htm.

Then use a small lookup table of users with their network login and initials to grab initials or whatever. You can then set default values to a DLookup() function that grabs a field from the lookup table.

Duane MS Access MVP
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[jjlogan]

Thanks for all the help dhookom. I will check the referenced http site after current work. Jeff

 

[PHV]

If you don't have any user with a win9x OS you may simply consider Environ("USERNAME")

Hope This Helps, PH.
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