Two companies on the same database

[Jennifer B.]

Hi:

I have setup a database for a company that is actually two companies
in one. Everything they sell, salespeople, suppliers, customers are
all identical. The only difference is their name. Also the fact that
they want and have to keep the company information separate,
(query-wise, etc...). My boss wants to keep it on the same database.

Is this even remotely possible? I am at a loss. I have tried
everything imaginable.

Could I, if I had to, have two separate databases and join them. Will
this work.

Any suggestions or help you have is very much appreciated.

Thank You,

Jen

 

[Chris Nebinger]

Yes, it is possible to do this. In Northwind, add a
company table and link it to the appropriate tables.

Without seeing your structure, it is hard to say how
difficult this would be.


Chris Nebinger

 

[pvictor]

Jen,

Interesting problem - when you same the information for two companies is the "same", I am unsure about what you mean.

For example, is the list of Customers the same not just teh data you collect about each customer? So, if you have two databases, or Customer tables in the same database even, and Customer XZY changes their mailing address you would have to post the change to both tables. Obviously, a less than desirable idea.

However, if you have just one Customer table for common use across both Companies, Customer info maintenance is easier and surer, but how do you separate activity from Company 1 from Company 2. This would be especially true of transactions like Sales Orders.

Is this "combinued yet separate" issue the crux of the problem.

Victor