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Access user trying to change my thinking

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    #1

    Access user trying to change my thinking

    I'm a long time Access user and I'm trying to learn A5. Right now I'm attempting to learn how to replicate some of the work I do in Access.

    In Access I'm used to:
    table -> query -> report
    with the queries ranging from very simple to complex

    So far in A5 I have learned to make sets that correspond to the relationships that I might set up in a query and then use filtering to return only the records I'm interested in. I still need to do more work with filtering, but it seems to be very powerful. The next step is seting up a report that is based off the set.

    So, is this the best way to work or is there some other method that I haven't figured out yet? I'm need to do more reading of the documentation, but I'm still not clear when to use filter and when to use query in A5.

    Also, I used to write a fair number of VBA functions placed in an Access module. I would use these functions in my queries to change formatting, complex calculations, etc. What is the best way to get started with Xbasic?

    TIA
    Ben
    Tags: None
    #2
    RE: Access user trying to change my thinking

    Welcome Ben,

    I can't speak for the 'best' way but I can tell you how I've began. I'm sure you know all this.

    1. Build your tables. Build you indexes.

    Realise that whatever you define in field rules primarily affects data as it is entered, they also affect every form you build so getting them right saves time after.

    Table indexes are the first programming decision you can make after data typing. They not only order data but they can shape it by filtering data sets.


    2. Forms are the user experience. And a control panel for selecting programming tasks.

    Programming occurs in 5 areas.

    1. Calculated fields in the forms create variables that can be scoped for more general use.

    2. Operations manipulate tables and sets.

    3. Action Scripting is a tremendous auto-coding for many simple, or frequent tasks. Its a point where Alpha's experience really shines. What they have done before so often they make really easy for users\developers to do again.

    4. Xbasic

    This is the real meat for developing. I've heard rumors of some people doing their entire Application in Xbasic and Xdialogue. Currently I'm an abject neophite in these matters so I invite anyone else to describe this.

    5. Report layout creates the basis for graphics files sent to your printer.


    Most everyone here is more experienced than I am so they can chime in if I've left anything out :).

    My recommendation is to fire up

    "Introduction to Action Scripting"
    "Learning Xbasic"

    Then print, or buy, the Xbasic Reference (Its huge). I found that some of the best explanations of things are in the reference. Although the downloads are not always the most up to date I found the printed version very helpful. It is helping me interalise an organization to hang new learning on.

    All the while, make regular use of the online Documentation because it is the most up to date.

    I have heard really good things about Dr. Peter Wayne's books but I haven't read them. His website is very good http://www.learn alpha.com/. The news letter is also very good http://www.imakenews.com/alphasoftware/ .


    Hope that helps.

    Bo

    Anyone with additions and\or more experience is most welcome to chime in.

    Comment

      #3
      RE: Access user trying to change my thinking

      I think Bo offered a good set of advice. Let me offer a much less extensive response that deals with your immediate need:

      After you've built your report, use the Action Scripting genie to build a button that produces the report. As you build that action script, you'll have a chance to specify the order, filter, etc.

      - Steve
      -Steve
      sigpic

      Comment

        #4
        RE: Access user trying to change my thinking

        Bo and Steve, thanks for your input.

        What I'm doing now is evaluating the use of A5 to help me access existing dbase tables that are part of an old DOS Clipper application called Dayo. Currently we use an old copy of Alpha 4 to do table manipulation and Access for advanced reporting. I know that A5 can do everything that those two programs do, it just a big change in my thought process to get where I need to go.

        I'm used to knocking together a query in Access and then fine tuneing it. Only at that point to I create the report.

        It seems that the equivalent here might be to use a browse table for a set and then do a filter.

        I would say at this point the only thing I don't like about this process is that I do like having my Access query contain the A5 set, filter, and browse table in one place. Although I suppose there is an argument to be made regarding reuse of those components if they are available individually.

        Comment

          #5
          RE: Access user trying to change my thinking

          Ben,

          If you have a query that you need to run periodically you can save it as a query operation. Then just run it when needed.

          -- tom

          Comment

            #6
            RE: Access user trying to change my thinking

            Take a look at the Alpha Five Help for complete on-line
            documentation.

            Comment

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