A few of our clients run MS Access databases to manage parts of their business and are now starting to embrace what databases can do for them. They are looking into ways to leverage their existing databases and their functionality and use them outside their office. In this post I will describe some of the potential benefits of having access to your database on a mobile device.

We love telling clients about mobile apps, because most of them don’t realize that it’s possible to create apps just for your business. These apps allow you to access your internal data while on the go.

Although MS Access is good entry level database, there is no native or easy way to access it through an Android device. Thankfully, there are alternatives to accessing your MS Access database with your Android device. Utilizing one of these solutions will benefit your business in several ways.

Improve efficiency of data entry

By having a mobile app connected to your database, your company can easily replace the use of paper. This can save hundreds of hours spent on data entry, collecting information, confirming handwritten information or looking for misplaced paperwork. Increasing office efficiency frees your employees up for tasks that are a far better use of their expertise.

Your company can capture the information needed, online or offline, and stay productive anywhere. Mobile apps can speed up data entry with neat features such as:

  • Simple, familiar interfaces
  • Attaching photographs in real-time
  • Template usage or ​‘pull-up and re-use’ information residing in the database
  • Scan items (e.x. RFID, barcode) to bring up and update information

Look up information on the spot

Having access to your MS Access database on your Android device, provides you with information in real-time and the freedom to react immediately. You can determine how to solve a problem in the field within seconds, even if you’ve never encountered it before.

Reduce delays and improve communication

Entering information through the app can provide real-time updates back to the office right away – not two weeks from now when the paperwork is finally filed. Your employees can gather mission-critical data in the field to make better business decisions. When everyone in your company has access to the same information at the same time, errors are reduced and issues requiring attention are addressed faster.

Better equipment management

An Android app can also allow for better equipment management and tracking. By always having real-time information about maintenance schedules, availability, and equipment locations, you can improve inventory planning and use. As mentioned above, Android apps give you the ability to scan items (e.x. barcode or RFID) to track items easily and swiftly. 

Improved customer service

Your sales force can also benefit from having access to your company’s database. They can give the client the numbers they need right away, even if they didn’t anticipate the question beforehand. Furthermore, if you provide an app to your clients (i.e. customer portal), it can improve customer service and reduce the amount of time you spend helping customers.

Business use cases for mobile apps include:

  • Site Inspections
  • Incident/​Safety Reporting
  • Mobile Timesheets
  • Materials Tracking
  • Asset Inventory Tracking

Integrating a mobile app with your database can make your employees’ jobs easier, free up their time, and give them the freedom to react immediately. What can an Android app do for your business specifically? Let me know below!