Should I upgrade my current database?
Here is a list of tests you can use to find out if you need to upgrade your database:
Is your database system tuned to the way your staff works?
For example, a Client may ring a staff member. Can he or she rapidly get all the information they need to respond to the Client on the phone. Can they answer questions about availability, quote prices and dates or is their response: “I’m sorry, I don’t have this information at the moment. Can I ring you back?”
Can you share your Database properly?
Databases are designed to be shared by several people at the same time. This means several people can add new records or change information simultaneously. If you can’t do this, then you are not getting the best use from your system.
Does your database do a good job of presenting and analyzing the data?
Do you have to give someone a special task to come up with the Sales Figures for the last quarter? Do your staff resort to taking snapshots of tables and copying them into Excel so that they can analyze the data? Do you have to prepare documents such as statements and form letters manually?
Is it easy to use?
Can a new member of staff start using the database straight away or do they need a long induction period? Do they have to remember items like Customer Codes and Product numbers? Is it easy to search for data even if the information they have is incomplete? Is it over complicated with features you don’t need or want or slow you down?
Are the forms attractive and well laid out?
Is the writing too small? Does the programmer think that a bright purple or fluorescent pink background is cool?
Alternatively, are all forms a uniform grey?
Is it easy to enter data without having to use the mouse?
Do the forms use the space available to the full or occupy only a small portion of the screen?
Does the database get corrupted often?
Do you have to go out of the database and then go back in? Do you frequently have to ‘Compact and Repair’ it?
Is the database slow? Does it take a long time to open? Does it crash or lock-up frequently?
Is it too big?
Large databases are slow to open and slow to save data. They are more likely to get corrupted. Large databases are often due to poor design, saving unnecessary or duplicate information.
Are you able to back up the database regularly
- and restore it from backup files in an emergency?
If you are having problems with any of these, let us know.