How to Build a Switchboard in Access

Microsoft Access lets you create two types of forms: data entry forms and switchboard forms. A data entry form is used to input information into the database, while a switchboard is used to direct users to different areas of the database. If your database has multiple switchboards, you can set one as the default and make it open automatically when the database opens. In addition, you can instruct the switchboard to open a report, run a macro or exit the application.

Instructions

1. Open the Microsoft Access database you want to modify.

2. Select the "Database Tools" tab. Click "Switchboard Manager" from the "Database Tools" group. Click "Yes" at the pop-up to create a switchboard in the Switchboard Manager. You are directed to the Switchboard Manager dialog box.

3. Click the "New" button. The Create New dialog box opens. Enter the name of the switchboard form you want to create. Click "OK."

4. Pick the form from "Switchboard Pages" and click "Edit."

5. Click the "New" button to add items to the switchboard. The "Edit Switchboard Item" box opens.

6. Select the action you want to perform from the "Command" drop-down list. Press "OK."

7. Close the Edit Switchboard Page. To make the switchboard the default, click "Make Default" in the Switchboard Manager. Click "Close."

References

• Microsoft Office: Create and Use a Switchboard