Relational Databases: Creating Forms

Relational Databases: Creating Forms

Understanding Forms in Relational Databases

• Forms in relational databases are views or windows that display one record at a time.
• They are utilized to enter, edit, view and delete records in a database table.

Creating Forms

• A form can be created manually or by using a Form Wizard in most database software.
• The Form Wizard walks you through the steps and options for creating a new form.

Form Design View

• The Design View allows for greater customisation of a form’s layout and features.
• In Design View, you can adjust the form’s appearance, add controls (like buttons or text boxes), and specify datasource and data binding.

Control Elements in Forms

• Control elements, such as text boxes, list boxes, combo boxes, command buttons, labels, etc., can be added to forms to enable user interaction.
• Each control element plays a role in interacting with data, e.g., entering, selecting, or displaying data.

Form Properties

• Every form has properties that can be adjusted to achieve varying functionalities.
• Properties control a form’s appearance, behaviours, and data settings.

Form Navigation

• Navigational controls can be added to a form to switch between records, close the form, save changes, etc.
• Navigation Buttons are a commonly used navigational control that come built-in with most forms.

Utilising Forms for Data Entry

• Forms provide a more user-friendly environment for data entry compared to entering data directly into a table.
• They validate data in real time, reducing the risk of data entry errors and maintaining data integrity.

Using Forms for Data Search and Filter

• Forms can be made to be interactive where users can search, filter and sort records.
• This functionality greatly enhances the efficiency of database operations.