Comments on: Excel Is NOT a Database!

By: Julio

Julio — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 20:06:04 +0000

Great article. It gives an inside as why not to use Excel like something it is NOT! a database… we usually try the path of least resistance and in this case Excel might be a bit more ‘friendly’ than Access; however, once a person has a decent level of confidence using Access, it will prefer it over Excel when handling large amounts of data. I also agree with John (fellow commentator) above, both programs should be readily available and should used to each of its individual full potential. I’m looking forward to read more articles like this. Thank you Jodith. May you have a good day.

By: Jodith

Jodith — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 17:42:00 +0000

Absolutely, John. People are afraid of what they don’t know. I recommend every assistant get at least basic training, and preferably some advanced training, in Access. It’s really a much simpler program than most folks realize.

By: John

John — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 09:12:29 +0000

Ha Ha. I agree wholeheartedly. I like using both packages, however I know when access is established to your needs it is a very good tool. The challenge is convicting others. These tools are most commonly used in small business and therefore reliant on staff who often do a multitude of other tasks. Time of training we know is valuable ,though not always practical. I guess excel will remain as a pretend database.

By: Custom Motorcycles

Custom Motorcycles — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 19:16:09 +0000

The word “database” seems to scare many people for some reason.
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By: Rosacea Acne Treatment

Rosacea Acne Treatment — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 12:38:37 +0000

Spreadsheet and database programs are geared towards a different type of functionality, hence, there are good reasons for having both. It’s very important to know which tool is appropriate for your specific needs, or else your company runs the risk of suffering where it really counts, on the bottom line.
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By: motocross suspension

motocross suspension — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:44:42 +0000

I think that having organized reports in any form will help any size firm/company to be successful. These are some great ideas that you discuss. Thanks for the great insight

By: Quickbooks Education

Quickbooks Education — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 11:36:21 +0000

A database can be the most valuable assett a company owns. I am sure this has never been the case for a spreadsheet. Spreadsheets do help with mail merges but a good database will do this anyway.
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By: trading system

trading system — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 16:57:55 +0000

I think that using a database is key in running a business and performing administrative duties. I think that most basic office programs are capale of handling this for any business

By: Jodith

Jodith — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 03:53:22 +0000

Well, you *could* convert it to Excel, but why would you want to *boggles*. Managers like to have something familiar to work with, but usually have to be convinced they’re shooting themselves in the foot in the long run.

By: Dewoun

Dewoun — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 19:27:32 +0000

This is a great article! My current employer wants to convert our database that has stored critical client information into an Excel workbook and he can’t understand why we can’t do this!!! I am printing this article and giving it to him!

Thanks,

Dewoun
The Office Professionals Place
http://adminhotspot.blogspot.com/
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By: Jodith

Jodith — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:28:26 +0000

Ummm….*looks around nerviously*….Thank you?

*laughs* I never was very good with compliments. I’m glad you’re enjoying the blog!

By: Tasi

Tasi — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:06:05 +0000

Love it! Jodith you are spot on. I love your perspective, intuitiveness and “straight-to-the-punch” writing style. You have a new student in San Diego. Cannot wait to read the rest of your blogs.

By: Jodith

Jodith — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 05:25:20 +0000

Exactly! The right tool for the right job.

By: Richard Rinyai

Richard Rinyai — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:41:18 +0000

Hi,

It’s actually amazing of how many people still do use Excel as a database. I find Access much more powerful.

It’s amazing of how many times people try to update an Excel spreadsheet at the same time as someone else is using it and they wonder why they complain.

The only thing I don’t like about Access is people using it for CRM purposes. We use AdSystem for that. You can find it through http://www.datafest.com.

Thanks,

Richard
http://www.theprofessionalassistant.net
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By: Sabrina

Sabrina — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:02:24 +0000

I would also say that Excel isn’t a word processor either. You can not put 10 lines of text into every cell and expect it to print all on one page and be readable. Neither is Power Point!
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