Bus 145 Database Project Part 2 Build And Test

Bus 145 Database Project Part 2build And Testthe Build And Test Pr

Create a new blank database in Access, set it to automatically compact on close, and build the database according to the ERD, table maps, and data dictionary provided. This involves creating tables with appropriate naming conventions, establishing primary and foreign keys, defining fields with relevant data types, labels, and properties, and entering test data. Use lookup wizards for limited choice fields, enforce referential integrity, and verify data entry accuracy through testing. Follow the prescribed steps for building tables, relationships, and data entry, culminating in a comprehensive, functional database setup ready for reporting and analysis.

Paper For Above instruction

The development of a robust and reliable database system is essential for managing complex business operations effectively. This paper discusses the systematic process of building and testing a database in Microsoft Access based on a detailed ERD (Entity-Relationship Diagram), table maps, and a data dictionary. The steps involved encompass creating tables, establishing relationships, customizing field properties, entering test data, and ensuring data integrity through lookup functionalities and referential integrity constraints.

Initially, the process begins with creating a new blank database in Access. It is vital to configure the database to automatically compact on close (access options / current database), ensuring efficiency and optimal performance. The first primary step involves creating tables with names that exclude spaces to avoid compatibility issues. Each table requires a primary key, which should be independent of operational data to maintain consistency and facilitate accurate relationships. For example, surrogate keys such as autonumber fields are preferable over business-specific identifiers.

Next, tables must incorporate foreign keys to establish relationships among data entities. The ERD informs which fields should serve as foreign keys, linking, for instance, clients to reservations or payments. The fields themselves should be as descriptive and fully qualified as possible, combining the table name and field, such as 'ClientName' or 'PaymentAmount,' without spaces, to promote clarity.

Defining appropriate data types for each field is critical, ensuring the database captures all necessary information. This assignment mandates at least six different data types, including a number, date/time, and currency. For example, 'MaintenanceCost' might utilize the currency data type, while 'DateOfBirth' uses date/time. Proper field sizes are configured based on expected data length, such as 15 characters for text fields and suitable numeric ranges for numbers.

Once the fields are established, customizing their properties enhances data integrity. These properties include format (e.g., phone number format), input masks (for standardized data entry), default values (such as current date), validation rules (to restrict invalid data), validation text (user prompt messages), required fields, and indexes to optimize query performance. For instance, the 'Email' field should employ a validation rule to verify proper email format, accompanied by a validation text guiding users.

Test data entry into main tables is essential to verify the correctness of properties and data validation measures. Entering at least five records per main entity (such as clients, payments, and car rentals) allows for testing input masks, validation rules, and default values. Proper testing ensures that the database can handle typical data inputs and enforces data quality standards.

Subsequently, lookup fields are created using the Lookup Wizard to restrict data entry to predefined options, such as payment methods ('Visa', 'MasterCard', 'Cash'), vehicle types, or client categories. These lookups should return meaningful descriptive data rather than primary key values, e.g., displaying 'Luxury SUV' instead of a numerical ID. Foreign key fields should also use lookup wizards to maintain referential integrity and facilitate user-friendly data input.

The relationships among tables must be established in the Relationships window, with referential integrity enforced. This step prevents orphaned records and ensures data consistency across related tables. Where appropriate, cascade update options are enabled to propagate changes automatically to related records, reducing maintenance efforts and avoiding data anomalies.

Lastly, the completeness and functionality of the database are confirmed through rigorous testing of relationships, lookups, and data entry processes. The final product should include at least ten records for primary entities, five for ancillary entities, and a set of 100 transaction records, demonstrating the system's capability to manage real-world data volumes.

In conclusion, building and testing a database in Access requires a methodical approach that balances structural design with data validation and relationship enforcement. Such diligence ensures the creation of a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly database suitable for operational needs and accurate reporting.

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