1. Meet with a client to determine needs.
2. Create scope document which will include:
   1. A statement of purpose - This is a statement identifying the purpose and major features of the database.
   2. Mock ups of Input Forms - Most data in the database will be viewed and edited with on-screen forms. This part of the scope document will include diagrams and/or screen shots giving a general idea of the look of the forms.
   3. Mock ups of Paper Reports - This will also be screen shots and/or diagrams giving a general idea of the look of the paper reports that the database can generate.
   4. Mock ups of Excel Reports - Many users prefer to have their reports in an Excel format. This section of the scope document will include screen shots and/or descriptions of these “Excel Reports.”
   5. An Entity Relationship diagram - A diagram used by database designers to list the database’s tables, fields and their relationship to each other.
   6. A Field List Worksheet - A worksheet listing the definition of each database field.
   7. A list of Menu Options - A simple to use menu is critical in order to help users navigate through the various forms and reports of the database. This section of the scope document includes screen shots and/or listing of the various menu options.
   8. A Task List - A listing of the tasks needed to complete the project.
   9. A Time / Cost Estimate - An estimate of the time and cost needed to build the database.
3. Create database
   In this phase we create the tables, queries, forms, paper reports, Excel reports, and code (macros and modules).
4. Import Data
   Many clients have data in spreadsheets or other electronic documents. We will work with your staff to import this data into the new database.
5. Install and Test
   We will work with your staff to install the database and make sure it is working to your satisfaction.
6. Documentation and Training
   If desired we can create documentation and provide training to your staff so they can get the most out of the new database.
7. Enhancements
   We have found that once the database is up and running most people discover new ideas for how the database might be used. If so we can work with you to create the desired enhancements.

Database Features

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Menu

Figure 1: Sample Main Menu

When the database opens a switchboard or menu is displayed.

• The main menu and sub menus include multiple options from which users can navigate to various forms and reports in the database.
• The Shell Location identifies the location of the Access file that holds the database’s interface. For example, it holds the forms and reports that are on the main menu.
• The Data Location identifies the location of the tables that hold the data for the database.
• The Version / Date identifies the version number and date of the shell file.

Supporting Lists Screen

Figure 2: Sample Support Lists Screen

Many drop-down menus will exist in the database. Each drop down is controlled by a supporting list. The Supporting Lists Screen provides a location where administrators can easily update the list of items that appear in the drop downs.

• The navigation bar on the left provides a list of the various supporting lists. From the navigation bar an administrator can pick the supporting list needed for editing.
• A description of each supporting list is available on this screen.
• The contents area shows the values that are needed for the selected supporting list. Administrators can use this area to edit the contents of the supporting list.

Input Forms

Figure 3: Sample Form

The database will include multiple forms from which you can view and/or edit data. The forms will include various controls to facilitate viewing, editing and navigating with in the database.

• In the top left corner of the form are navigation tools that allow for easy movement from one record to another.
• Text boxes allow for easy edits.
• Drop down menus allow users to either type or pick items from a list.
• List boxes provide another way to pick items from a list.
• Sub-forms allow users to edit data for multiple records.
• Command buttons facilitate additional features at the click of a button.
• Tabs bring order to an otherwise busy form.

Paper Reports

The database will include multiple reports from which you can view and/or print data. The reports can be connected to a report options dialog box that allows for filtering and other report options.

Figure 4: Report Options dialog box

Figure 5: Sample Report