In order to gain knowledge as a skilled database expert, a set of important classes will be required. Nothing can replace hands on experience, but taking a class will help students better understand the tools and techniques needed to develop database expertise. Access Level 1 and 2 are recommended, in most cases, to understand how database fundamentals are established. Access is not a prerequisite for Crystal Reports, but some understanding of database concepts is helpful. Most SQL students usually have some database background. Therefore, the fundamentals are important.
Microsoft Access
Databases are designed to maintain and manage large amounts of information. Access can be used to develop tables, make relationships between the tables, create queries to extract related information, develop forms to make input easier, and create reports for viewing the end result. As more sophisticated development is necessary, the use of Visual Basic programming may be needed. The suggested training path involves Access Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, Level 4, and Level 5 or Level 1, Level 2, Level 4, Level 3, and Level 5.
- Access 2003 101: Intro to Databases
- Access 2003 102: Intermediate Topics
- Access 2003 104: Macros & Advanced Topics
- Access 2003 105: Application Development & VBA
- Access 2007: Level 1 - Creating Databases
- Access 2007: Level 2 - Queries, Forms & Reports
- Access 2007: Level 3 - Advanced Queries & Macros
- Access 2007: Level 4 - Application Development & VBA
- Migrating to Access 2007
Crystal Reports
This is a report writer used to extract information out of any data source and present it in readable reports. It can be used with most database solutions including proprietary solutions. The suggested training path involves Crystal Reports Level 1 and Level 2.
SQL
Structured Query Language is a standard interactive and programming language for getting information from and updating a database. The suggested training Path involves Access Level 1, Level 2, then SQL Level 1, and Level 2.
- SQL Scripting: Level 1 - Fundamentals of Querying
- SQL Scripting: Level 2 - Querying & Manipulating Data
FileMaker
This is a database solution used to gather, process, and share information. It can be used to create, store, and organize information so that it is available for efficient retrieval.