MS Access alternatives

[MyWorld]

Are there any freeware that is able to edit and view MS Access db's?

I know OpenOffice and is very familiar with it, it just that out organisation is MS crazy so I need something that will import an Access database and then be able to edit it, so in short, a freeware alternative to maintain an Access database.

Failing this I'll just have to push through with OpenOffice and redo everything from the ground up.

 

[Other Pineapple Smurf]

I take it this is because of licence issues that you are asking this question. I'm not an acess fan (any db wiithout a console gets a thumbs down) but I do understand its place (did my ICDL last year on it). But would it not be better just to get a full licence for your office. The real cost of switching can be way more than one access licence.

But in the real world you would just export to CSV and then import it into MySQL and PostgreSQL and use the command line with raw SQL

 

[risingtide]

Can't you use OpenOffice and an Access ODBC driver?

 

[MyWorld]

The real cost of switching can be way more than one access licence.

I'm talking 50+ PC's here. Each and every one must be able to use and edit the db. We basically all use the same layout and db form, but each department has their own set of data.

Can't you use OpenOffice and an Access ODBC driver?

Do you have a link I can investigate? This would be the best option if there is such a driver!

 

[qinglung]

I could open an MS Access database without installing any drivers, using just a normal install of OpenOffice. In the open file dialogue of OpenOffice Base, choose "Connect to an existing database" and then choose as an option "Microsoft Access".

 

[Sackboy]

I take it this is because of licence issues that you are asking this question. I'm not an acess fan (any db wiithout a console gets a thumbs down) but I do understand its place (did my ICDL last year on it). But would it not be better just to get a full licence for your office. The real cost of switching can be way more than one access licence.

But in the real world you would just export to CSV and then import it into MySQL and PostgreSQL and use the command line with raw SQL

I would say this is the best route especially if your databases are getting large. You have more control over security and can tinker with reports as well.