Linking VB forms to Access DB... How?? Please help

[pat_masters]

I need some help linking a database to my form window. To give an idea what I am trying to do, Ill explain.

I work for an office supply company. We have sales associates who call and ask for various skus for various items. I have created the forms for each category that the associate will use. The problem I am currently running into is setting up a database and figuring out the best way to retrieve the information from it.

This would be a typical scenario that the associate would use the form and database:

Associate would click on the PRINTER CARTRIDGES button which would trigger the corresponding form. The associate would then select the manufacturer of the cartridge from a drop down box. The program would then contact the database and retrieve the different models for that particular manufacturer. The associate would then select the corresponding model and then click get information. The form would contact the database again and return the results to the text boxes on the form (i.e. sku, yield, printers it will work with etc...)

I thought about using MS Access but am having trouble understanding how to setup the database so that when the program calls the db that the information will be right where I need it in the db. I also thought about using Excel so that form could call on the specific cell and return the information in that cell to the text box. What would be easier? I would prefer to use Access tho I am not very fluent with either program or programming.

I would really appreciate any and all help with this project. My company has deemed this project miniscule to put a coporate programmer on it so I have taken the initative to learn myself. And seeing how I am up for a raise this month, I would greatly appreciate any help.

I do have the project files zipped to send to you if you need to reference the program to help me figure it out.

Patrick Masters
Staples Direct

For what all programmers are getting paid if it's possible to create business application without any knowledge in programming. I think nobody can give you the information you are asking in a short letter.
Sorry.

[Jim Maccauley]

If you're new to programming, it may be an idea to get some books on the subject (Peter Wright's books are quite good).
If this a project that your management has actually told you to impliment, they should be providing you with training or at least training materials. If it's for brownie points, then go for a good book.
The project (including learning VB) is likely to take more than a month.


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