Microsoft® Access® 2010 Programmer's Reference

Appendix I. Tips and Tricks

Gaining technical competence is only one part of the equation for becoming a successful Access developer, and most of this book has been focused on helping you learn solid skills for writing and modifying code, including macros. But you also need to consider the user's perspective in order to deliver, intuitive solutions that are easy to maintain and modify. In this appendix, we share several of our favorite tips, tricks, and techniques. When you work with the download files for this appendix, you'll see that most of the examples are contained in the Chamber application. And, as an extra bonus, we've collected a few tips from other esteemed developers and colleagues. In addition to augmenting your developer toolbox, these will also provide wider variety in style and techniques.

VISUAL INTERFACE STANDARDS

As with many areas of life, appearances can make a lasting impression. The way an application looks can have a significant impact on its success — so much so, that a poorly designed UI, in looks and/or functionality, can essentially sabotage a project, no matter how great the underlying code and concepts. On the other hand, an intuitive, clean, user-friendly UI can earn invaluable user buy-in and even off-set other shortcomings. Rather than leaving you to learn on your own, we have drawn from our cumulative years of experience as developers and consultants to share some recommendations that will help your applications present a desired level of professionalism ...