Microsoft Access

Known for being a database management program, Microsoft Access is designed to make it easier to use database-related web apps. Users can access them through SharePoint and select the type of template that they want. Once a template is chosen, Microsoft Access automatically creates a database structure, command interface and navigation. If the created template is not enough, users can add in new types of data and edit the template.

Features

In recent years, Microsoft has changed the program so that it is completely compatible with SharePoint. From the Welcome screen, users can easily make templates and collaborate with colleagues. All of the design features of Microsoft Access are designed to make it simple to collaborate online. It can also be used offline for local databases.

The changes to Microsoft Access now make it impossible to use Query designs like the pivot table and pivot chart. The Upsizing Wizard is gone as well. Many of these features were not used frequently in the 2010 version, so Microsoft decided to remove the tools instead of improving them.

The current version has an interface that is similar to the older one, but it has a sleeker design. This new interface uses the hotkeys and toolbar for data creation. Ultimately, the look of the apps will depend entirely on the chosen template. The main tools included in the app are the form, query and table. Additional menus offer access to features within Access and SharePoint.

Microsoft Access is made to make it easy to share a database with co-workers, friends and colleagues. While online, users are connected to SkyDrive for easy file sharing and editing. When disconnected from the cloud, it can be challenging to edit data offline. Once the user reconnects to the cloud, they have to upload any changes for the database to adjust.

How It Works

Many of the templates on Microsoft Access look like Outlook.com. The entire app is color coordinated to make it easier to find notifications and key menus. Even when working on a complex project, the program functions quickly and smoothly. It can be opened in a default web browser like Chrome, Internet Explorer and FireFox.

Pros

- Access lets you use SharePoint

- Simple to use

- Templates are easy to create

- Database and form developer can be simply modified

- Excel and Access 2010 files are easy to import in Access 2013.

Cons

- The Upsizing Wizard and some query designs are gone

- Does not scale for multiple users

- Limited third-party options

- Slows down when the database or files are too large

- Does not focus extensively on traditional databases