How do I set up a database that will allow me to address envelope.

[Schnauzer89]

I need a database for clients that will allow me to sort them by type, or get
addresses for all of them, or labels. One that I can personalize letters
that will be mailed in mass. What microsoft program should I use?

 

[Brett Collings [429338]]

It's wonderful that you asked first ... too many organisations use
Word, Excel or Outlook(barf). Access is the program to use primarily
because you have so much more flexibility.

What might start out with just names and addresses might get
categories and then maybe you want to use zip codes to target specific
areas and so on. Access is the only application to do this in.

Having said that, the learning curve is steep but made much easier if
you forget the concepts of the other three programs and start with a
clear slate. Access is about data management and design. The
principles are quite simple and once understood, they have a "eureka"
factor about them. Principles and skills are learned which apply to
large system databases as well.

We're your 24/7 helpline so if you want to dive in - we're here.

Brett

I need a database for clients that will allow me to sort them by type, or get
addresses for all of them, or labels. One that I can personalize letters
that will be mailed in mass. What microsoft program should I use?

Cheers,
Brett

 

[Jamie Collins]

Access is the program to use primarily
because you have so much more flexibility.

As a database, Excel is more flexible e.g. lack of data typing, no
constraints, no DRI, etc. As a font end, MS Word must surely be what
the OP is looking for e.g. mail merge functionality. I've seen address
labels done via a MS Access report but there is much better support in
Word.

What might start out with just names and addresses might get
categories and then maybe you want to use zip codes to target specific
areas and so on. Access is the only application to do this in.

I'd wager the average Excel user would be able to do that in Excel.
Yes, the 65536 row limit is easily reached <g> but what might start
out as a small .mdb could grow to more than 2GB so why not go with MS
SQL Server from the outset?

Having said that, the learning curve is steep

For an organization that means more money and more risk.

many organisations use
Word, Excel or Outlook

Yes, they are indeed the popular choices.

Jamie.

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