One of the powerful features of Microsoft Access is the ability for developers to create custom solutions using VBA code (Visual Basic for Applications), which is similar to Visual Basic 6.0. VBA code is currently used extensively throughout various Microsoft Office programs such as Excel, Word, Outlook and PowerPoint. Most VB6 code including the use of Windows API calls can be used in VBA. Many Microsoft “Power Users” in addition to Access developers are able to extend basic custom end-user solutions to a professional solution by using advanced automation, data validation, error trapping, and multi-user support.
Microsoft Access features a relational database. One of the major advantages of a relational database is the ability to maintain relationships between different data tables. The power of a relational database makes it possible to ‘connect’ the data in many ways and ensure the consistency (or referential integrity) of this data from table to table. Creating relationships and ensuring consistency saves time and accuracy since each piece of information is only entered once which eliminates everyday human and duplication errors.
