SO LOST-- Want users to create their own market comp searches

[mokep]

I have one table that has all of the properties and their details put in already. My boss wants me to create a database to help with searching market comps. She wants the users to be able to input all of the characteristics they want in a property (i.e. between 100-250 square feet, medical office types, with a 22222 zipcode, and concrete building material). She wants all of the properties that match all of these descriptions to show up. Then the user can click on one of the properties and see all of its other details. I'm an intern with just about zero Access experience. Any help would be extremely, extremely appreciated.

[orange]

Do you have a written specification -- no matter how vague it might be?

You always start with a description of the issue/process you are trying to support with a database.
You never start with a physical table in Access to which you have "patiently/frustratingly" added real data.

The analogy here is you don't build a building without a design and a plan/blueprint.

[Homegrownandy]

http://allenbrowne.com/AppFindAsUType.html

If you download this DB and use as described it will allow a filter of ONE field that the user selects. If you want to do it by multiple at once that can also be done but you need to understand querys and how to manipulate them which isn't too complex once you get your head around it.

[mokep]

I just have a list of the fields I need and the types of searches that will be done on them. I don't really know how queries and repots work, so I'm not really sure how to write out a framework for it. Luckily, I've only created the fields in the report. I haven't actually type in all of the property info. I was just saying that to try to explain better what I am trying to do. I have the 44 fields in this one table... and then what? A query? A form? A report?

[mokep]

Do you have a written specification -- no matter how vague it might be?

You always start with a description of the issue/process you are trying to support with a database.
You never start with a physical table in Access to which you have "patiently/frustratingly" added real data.

The analogy here is you don't build a building without a design and a plan/blueprint.

I just have a list of the fields I need and the types of searches that will be done on them. I don't really know how queries and repots work, so I'm not really sure how to write out a framework for it. Luckily, I've only created the fields in the report. I haven't actually type in all of the property info. I was just saying that to try to explain better what I am trying to do. I have the 44 fields in this one table... and then what? A query? A form? A report?

[mokep]

http://allenbrowne.com/AppFindAsUType.html

If you download this DB and use as described it will allow a filter of ONE field that the user selects. If you want to do it by multiple at once that can also be done but you need to understand querys and how to manipulate them which isn't too complex once you get your head around it.

Thank you, but I don't even know how to do the coding in Access. The page says to copy the module into the database/ open the code window/ compile the Debug menu/ etc. and I have no idea how to do that or what that means. I opened the file it gave and I don't know how to get to its code, either. When I say I'm a new user, I mean really new

[Homegrownandy]

the module is on the left in the navigation, you just drag it from there onto the same place in your DB.


before doing anything like this remember to take a backup.

[orange]

mokep,

Do NOT jump into physical access as your first step.

You haven't told us much about yourself other than you are LOST.

Are you familiar with any computer/database/system analysis processes/concepts?

You can not be expected to glean the required knowledge from thin air. I'm recommending you map out what you are trying to do with pencil and paper and simple (no database jargon) English. The tutorials and videos will help get you organized to do so. Work through 1 or 2 of the tutorials mentioned --it will make things much easier--but you have to work through the tutorial to get the benefits which can be used with any database.

Here is a link to some videos and tutorials that will help you to:
-describe the problem/issue you are trying to solve with an Access database
-understand the basic concepts of analysis and design See this and other videos by BA-Experts There are several knowledge nuggets on youtube by these guys and they're great and humorous.
-work from a description to create and test a data model (with pencil and paper)
-test the model with some sample data, adjust as necessary until it satisfies the requirement for data
-when the model has been vetted, use that as a blueprint for your tables and relationships



+with each step get confirmation from colleagues/boss that you have understood the requirements

Good luck.

A database with 1 table is rare.
A table with 44 fields is not unheard of, but not very common.

[ssanfu]

I am in total agreement with orange. First design using pencil and paper. (or something equivalent)

But you need some ground rules. Work through these tutorials (among others) http://www.rogersaccesslibrary.com/forum/forum46.html
You might think you are trying to drink the Pacific ocean in one gulp, but remember, all you have to do is take small sips.

Post back with your design/concept. Ask questions. You will get guidance. Good luck........