Replicated Databases
Microsoft Access Replicated Databases
If you need to share data with remote offices or
external sites, replication can provide a practical, cost-effective solution. A replicated database is particularly beneficial for locations without access to the Internet, or for sites where network connectivity is poor quality, infrequent or non-permanent. It can also be a more efficient arrangement for staff working on client sites.
Having established a good, well-defined data model, it is easy to move to
an Intranet or Internet solution if business requirements or circumstances change.
A Replicated Database for a Planning Consultancy
Pegasus Planning Group LLP provide independent, specialist advice for the development industry on town planning, environmental planning and urban design .
The client had a limited budget to implement a shared database that
would ensure projects within the organisation did not have a conflict of interest.
A Microsoft Access replicated database was used as a cost effective solution.
The Problem
The partnership had five remote offices distributed over the United Kingdom. Information about project details were recorded in separate Excel spreadsheets which were stored on each site's local network (LAN).
The existing project data contained a lot of duplicate information, as projects often referred to the same clients and staff members. This meant that it was difficult to keep client information up to date, as it was stored in many different places.
In addition, they had to ensure that the same projects were not handled by different offices, but they had no shared method for carrying out checks. Project reference numbers needed to be allocated in a controlled manner to avoid duplication.
The Solution
PC Access designed a relational database to model both client and project data
in a structured way, which eliminated duplication of information. User-friendly forms now make it easy for junior staff to enter client and product data, with validation to improve the quality of information recorded. Project reference numbers are automatically generated, following the existing numbering system. A custom search screen allows staff to quickly identify potentially conflicting projects.
We developed a replicated Microsoft Access back-end database with a
custom script for synchronisation. This co-ordinates the update process across
the company's wide area network, and ensures that project data is regularly synchronised between office sites. With an easy method of adding new office
sites, staff do not need to involve PC Access as the company expands.
Technical: The synchronisation process used the
Synch40 TSI synchronizer ActiveX object library.
Garry Watson, General & Facilities Manager,
Pegasus Planning Group LLP says:
"We're really pleased with the solution provided by PC Access.
Both management and junior staff quickly adapted to the new system. Very little training was needed as the system is intuitive and
matches our internal work flow processes.
I would be very happy to recommend PC Access for their technical expertise, speedy delivery, and most of all for excellent results."