Best approach for simple database application

moycullen14

Hi,

I've been asked to quote for a reasonably straight-forward database application. Money will be reasonably tight and I'm wondering what the best way to go would be. The characteristics are:

• 10-15 tables, Largest table would contain 2000-3000 records (client information)
• 5-10 simultaneous user access required.
• Flexible reporting, report generation
• User environment is simple network of 10 Windows XP boxes with one designated as a file server
• Need to integrate/access OS files (office documents).
• To replace an existing legacy Access system.
• No dedicated IT support
• Admin (metadata management) & User functionality required

The two choices I'm considering are Access or Apache/PHP/MySql. I'd prefer the latter as I have more experience with it and its is more powerful/flexible and I detest Access. In fact, if the decision is Access, I'd probably let it go. However, I do want to recommend the most appropriate solution for the client.

The issues with AMP would be their ability to manage a server and the requirement to do a lot of potentially unnecessary GUI work.

Any thoughts?

kayos

If they dont have IT admin and you go giving them your prefered solution your gonna be in a world of pain when it comes to admin. As much and all as I hate Access it would be a more fitting choice for the client.

Then again SQL Server Express should be enough to allow for the specs and give you a better reporting solution for the client via reporting services. Which ties in with office which means your users are in their comfort zone.

BostonB

• Need to integrate/access OS files (office documents).

Thats more like a sharepoint doc management, or open source alternative. We're replacing many of our smaller access databases along those lines.