Need a Database but No IT Help? Microsoft Access Solutions | WSI

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What to Do When Your IT Department Can’t Help You with a Database Project

Is your company’s IT department unable or unwilling to help with your database needs? Don't worry—you have options! At Winning Solutions, Inc. (WSI), we work with IT departments across industries, helping them when they’re overloaded with work or lack expertise in Microsoft Access or the broader Microsoft business application technology stack. If you think your organization’s IT department would benefit from our services, feel free to have them reach out.

However, if you're unable to engage your IT department, Microsoft Access allows you to bypass the need for their assistance entirely. Here’s how:

No server required: With Microsoft Access, you don’t need to place your database on a server. A simple network file share will suffice for your team’s database needs. Easy setup: Store the data portion of your database (the back end) in a network file share, and deploy the front end (user interface, forms, reports) to each user’s computer. Just like accessing shared Microsoft Word or Excel files, your team can begin working with the database seamlessly. Before starting, consider scheduling time with a WSI consultant to ensure that Microsoft Access is the right tool for your needs. Access, along with the broader Microsoft business application stack, is a robust platform capable of handling various business processes, but factors like data size, user count, and transaction volume should be evaluated.

Already Started a Business Database? We Can Help!

If you’ve already begun building your database but hit a wall, our professional Microsoft developers can step in to complete your project. We have the expertise to guide you through the challenges and get your business database up and running.

Avoid Certain Technologies Without IT Involvement

If your IT department is uncooperative, be cautious with certain Microsoft technologies. Tools like Microsoft SQL Server, .NET, and Power Apps require IT department involvement for deployment, whereas Microsoft Access doesn’t. In fact, Power Apps will actively notify your IT department if you begin building with it—Microsoft Access won’t do this.

Before circumventing your IT department, ensure that your actions align with company policy. Always consult your manager and keep records of approvals. This is especially important in government or military settings.

Budgeting for Professional Database Development

Professional database development comes with costs. Be sure to have a payment plan in place for any consulting or programming services you engage. WSI accepts credit cards and purchase orders from select organizations. In some cases, customers choose to cover the development costs themselves if company funding isn’t available.

If you have any questions about the process or the technologies involved, our account managers are happy to assist—at no charge.