KaayJaay
Data validation is a "huge" and open-ended topic.
Here are some things to consider...
Design Level
- Your database design schema will help ensure data integrity. For example, enforcing referential integrity for Invoice / Invoice detail records will prevent "orphans".
- Use correct data types, and reasonable limits. For example, when defining a field called FirstName, do you need a max of 50 characters. Likewise, you can set input masks.
- You can use unique indexes to prevent duplicate entries. But be careful with over use of indexes -- they create overhead.
Form Level
- Use the form and field properties window to set masks and default values.
- You can use code with AfterUpdate field event procedure to verify specifics
- Verify related data exists with functions such as DLookUp.
- You can use BeforeUpdate record event procedure to check all data before updating or inserting a new record for integrity.
User Friendly interface
Providing a simply, intuitive user interface will also help avoid data issues. For example, by using combo or list boxes, and search capabilties within a data entry form will minimize data entry errors. For example, for a regional contact database, you could use a combo box for the Street name. The end user starts typing in the name of the street, and the combo box fills in the rest entry for the user - this saves time, and minimizes typing mistakes.
For more info, use the Tek-Tips search feature, key word validation or related words. Here is a starter link...
Richard