You have already created a flat personal database in a previous assignment. You created this database with the longer view of expanding it into a relational database. This more complex database format will allow you to connect information from multiple tables of data. It will also reduce the amount of redundant data entry necessary to achieve your tasks.

Planning

Begin by answering the questions posed below. These questions must be answered on paper and submitted as part of your assignment.

Define the Problem: You began your first databse with a definition of your problem. At that time you may have defined the whole problem or you may have just been looking at a problem that you could solve using a flat database. Now it is time to reconceptualiize your problem on a broader scale. Identify your problem that you need to solve using a database. What are all of the questions that you will need to be answered? What are the data that need to be collected/managed/used to answer these questions?

How has it Been Done?: Discuss how the problem could be addressed (not necessarily solved) through using an electronic databse. What approaches would you use to modify/improve your problem solving process of the past? What sorts of reports would you need to genterate to answer your questions?

What Do You Need to be Addressed?: Discuss how the problem could be addressed (not necessarily solved) through using an electronic database. What approaches would you use to modify/improve your problem solving process of the past? What sorts of reports would you need to generate to answer your questions.

Tables: This relational databse must have at least 3 tables. One of the tables must have at least 25 records. The other 3 tables may have fewer records just because that is all you need.

Fields: Each table will have a varying quantity of fields. One table must have at least 10 fields. Your collection of fields must include at least:

• Text field

• Number field

• AutoNumber field (Primary Key Field)

You must describe the connection between your tables. To tie the information from one table to another, a field must be common to each table. This connection description must include a description of how your tables are related.

Queries: You need to include at least one query that will provide the information necessary to answer ALL of the questions you asked earlier. The query needs to work and be able to retrieve desired information. Include an explanation that will describe the desired information; identify the fields that need to be used, and explain the criteria used to create the query.

Forms: You need to design at least ALL of the forms (at least 3) that you will use to enter data into your database. This form must be well-designed and include the following characteristics:

• Fields with properly aligned labels.
• Sequential tab order.
• A check box or toggle box.
• A graphic (this can either be in the form of a common graphic for the form or a photo OLE field that might display the photo of the person described in the record.)
• The whole form should fit on one screen.

Reports: Your database needs to include ALL of the reports (at least 3) that need be used to answer the questions that you asked earlier. Your reports will be evaluated on design and explanation. The design should include proper title alignment, subtotals, totals, and should be sorted by at least one field. Include an explanation that includes an explanation of what questions the reports are designed to answer; how the separation for the subtotals was used; what the totals signify; why the report(s) is/are sorted by the sorting field(s); and what answer the reports answer about your questions.

Submit:

Printed:

• Written responses to the Planning Questions above.
• Report(s) along with explanation of how this answers your question(s).

Electronic (in WebCT Dropbox):

• Access database

Expanded Personal Database Rubric (.pdf)