MS Access 02-07 : 'Offline' Data Entry / Sync

[gigemboy]

We have an Access database that people are needing to bring out into the field to collect data with. They will not have any net access, so they need to store this data in their local DB copy, and then when they bring it in, be able to merge/sync this with the central DB which contains all of the data. What is the best way to handle this? Replication? Some other method/tool? Simply handing out copies of the db and then merging together at a later time is a pretty tedious task. Any info would be appreciated

[Siddharth Rout]

Simply handing out copies of the db and then merging together at a later time is a pretty tedious task. Any info would be appreciated

Though it is a tedious task but I feel (It's totally my opinion) it is the best way to do it...

You can use Access' replication feature to create a replica of the database for the users to work with and then synchronize that with the master copy on the central file server when they come back.... All they need to do it upload their replica in the relevant folder and follow the sync process mentioned later in this post....

I am sure you are aware of the process. In case you are not then this will help. Simply follow these steps:

1. Open the database that you wish to replicate.
2. Go to Tools | Replication.
3. Select Create Replica.
4. Click Yes.
5. Click Yes again.
6. Select a folder on the department server, and then click OK.

Note: The replica data can be changed but not the database design. Also, only the design master can change.

When the users come back they can synchronize the data and design of the replica copy with that of the design master by following these steps:

1. Open the replica.
2. Go to Tools | Replication.
3. Select the Master Design DB from the Directly With Replica drop-down list.
4. Click OK.
5. Click Yes and then OK.

That's it... No coding... No other headaches... The data and design of both the master and replica will be up to date.

Hope this helps...