Database Schema

[Prayder]

Needing help and dont know access AT ALL. We have some access databases that have a front end and back end. And we hired a company to give us a quote on migrating those databases over to something else. The are asking for the database schema of each front end and back end. And I dont know how to do that or exactly what they are asking for. These databases are too large to email to them and I cannot really give them copies because the tables of sensitive information in them. So how do I give them a schema and what exactly is a database schema?

[ranman256]

table field layouts,
how the tables join to each other.

you should stay with Access. A microsoft app the works with all other microsoft apps. It requires a learning curve for those that have never used a database,
but it can do anything for your company.

[orange]

Prayder,
Just curious as to how and why you were selected to respond to the "hired company"?

It doesn't appear that neither you nor your org generally is familiar with the database(s) you have currently. Changing from Access to "something else" is usually a major decision involving --outgrown limitations; need new flexibility/functionality; must meet mandatory standard??; company purchased and now must use product XYZ for database compatibility.... But I see no rationale for a change in your post.
If the database(s) you have truly support your main business, then someone(s) in the org should be up to date on database concepts and operations. Unless of course the business is not viable, then there may be some justification to "shake things up".
I think there is more to your post than meets the eye. Any details you can supply would be helpful.

Good luck.

[Prayder]

I was selected because I am an automation technician and used to work in the IT field. The person that built these databases is no longer with the company and we are a subsidiary of a larger company located elsewhere and they do not use Microsoft access at all anywhere else in the company.

[GinaWhipp]

You could give them a *printout using the Database Documenter under Database Tools provided you have access to that tab. No sensitive information in that.

[orange]

If the larger company has an Information Resources/Data Management department I would expect someone in that group to be involved with major IT changes in a subsidiary.That isn't always the way things are set up, but is quite common to see Corporate Policies and Procedures and the like.
Also, as for the hired company, I'd expect them to have someone with database skills/knowledge on staff and aware of Access and active in analyzing existing databases that are destined for conversion.
Access is one piece of the Microsoft Office software and may be linked with Excel, Word, Powerpoint, Outlook etc within your offices/buildings.
I think this is more than schemas for existing databases that needs to be reviewed
Things like:
What software exists? How is it used? By whom? For what exactly?
What databases exist? What is the purpose of each?
Maintenance? Employee skills related to database/applications?
Criticality to continued business operation?.......
Good luck.