What is a Database

Extracting information from a paper-based system or spreadsheet is a significant drain on a very important and limited asset: time. Databases organise data to provide meaningful information at the click of a button.

A database:

• Is a collection of information related to a subject or purpose
   
• Performs data management tasks such as storing, retrieving and analyzing data
   
• Turns your data into usable information in the form of quality reports
   
• Control and validate data entry so you can trust the information reported.

If your paper-based data system or spreadsheets are costing you time and limiting your view of your business, the issues and opportunities, contact us today for a free consultation.
  

What we do with Access

At Fulcrum we develop small to medium sized database applications for one or multiple users in Microsoft® Access, with Microsoft®  Access or Microsoft®  SQL back-end systems:

• We listen to your needs, analyse your objectives and design a database tailored to your business requirements.
   
• We work within your budget and keep you informed every step of the way.
   
• We provide full user documentation to ensure that while your database is sophisticated in its actions, it is simple to use.  A technical manual can be provided as well.

To get started with a quote tailored to your business information needs, contact us today for a free consultation. 
 

Steps to developing a Database

Step One:

Discuss your requirements with us and receive a FREE quote

It’s essential that your database delivers the right information in the format you need. That’s why we start with a free consultation during which build a clear understanding of your requirements, including:

• Your business:    Your industry, products and services; your location(s); target markets and employee numbers etc.
   
• An overview of your requirements:    Why the system is needed; how it needs to work; the reporting  you require; who will be using the system and how many users; whether you require help files and documentation, training, support and maintenance.
   
• Schedule and budget:  The timeframe to implementation and your budget. 

Once we have gathered this information, we provide you with a functional overview for your database and a written proposal.

There is no obligation to buy, this is a free service. If you decide to continue we request a letter of obligation or a company purchase order form, and we continue to Step 2.  

Step Two:

System Design

During this phase we map the design of your database to meet your operational and strategic business objectives. We investigate any potential issues and find solutions ensuring your system is comprehensive and robust before moving forward. 

Step Three:

Initial Development

As the first stage of development we create the table structures, basic form design, data queries rules and write the code that will form the foundation for the final version. Before moving on, we test the system with your input, ensuring we are on track to meeting your needs. 

Step Four:

Final Development

Following an Access Development Standard and using industry standard naming conventions, our developers ensure that the database code is correctly structured and documented. During this stage we complete all elements of the build and prepare your system for testing.

Note: We do allow our clients access to the source code if required. However some of the code used may be from our code library and cannot be sold on to a third party without our agreement.

Step Five:

Testing

Before we release the final version, the system undergoes thorough testing both by our developers and User Acceptance Testing by either yourself or a staff member. This ensures the system delivers all objectives and is efficient in operation.

To review your database requirements with our free consultation, contact us today.