Four Ways To Customize Your Access Database Templates
So, you have downloaded your access database template and want to use it for your upcoming Access project. You like the style, layouts, formats, and automation contained in the access database template but you want to personalize it to your needs. Here are four quick tips to help you tailor your database templates to your project needs.
Import Data Into Your Tables
- Review the table design of the database template. Write down the field names and compare them to your Excel spreadsheet. If applicable, adjust either the Access fields or your Excel spreadsheet columns prior to the import.
- Use the Import Excel feature on the ribbon to start the import process. Browse your computer and locate the spreadsheet. Select the spreadsheet and complete the import wizard.
- Review the data once the import is complete and save your changes.
Review The Relationships
- Access the database tools and analyze the default relationships. This will give you insight on how the tables are related and how to modify the table’s to your project needs.
- If necessary, save and print the database relationships so you can use them a guide as you update the database template.
Customize The Template Forms
- Review the default forms in design view.
- Update any default images with your own image or company logo.
- Save your changes so you can utilize this form in your updated access database template.
Update the Default Queries
- Review the default queries by right clicking on the query in design view.
- Review the query fields and criteria. If necessary, adjust the table fields to reflect your imported data.
- Review the criteria and make appropriate adjustments. These may include criterion that is more appropriate for your data or transforming the query to a parameter query. The options are nearly endless!
- Run the query to ensure it works properly and displays the results you are trying to achieve.
- Save your change to ensure this query will be available for future uses.
Customize Your Reports
- Run the default reports to see how the results are displayed.
- Review the report in design view and make appropriate changes for your data. This may include formatting and/or design changes. Formatting changes may include adjusting the page width, page margins, column widths, and row heights. Design changes may include selecting a different color theme, report sort order, or report group order.
- Save any changes that are applicable and relevant to your project.
After personalizing your access database templates, review the database changes by clicking on the objects (tables, forms, queries, and reports) in the Navigation Pane and reviewing test data in the changed objects.
