Frequently Asked Questions

How much will it cost?
How do I go about drawing up a database specification?
Who pays for bug fixes?
Can we upgrade our database later?
How do you go about these upgrades?
What support can you offer?
Can you convert our existing database to Microsoft Access?
Can we import our existing data?
Would our new database be Year 2000 Compliant?
Can you convert our older Microsoft Access version to the newer version?
How long will it take to get our database from you?
Do you charge for drawing up an estimate?
How do you charge?

How much will it cost?

Since all bespoke databases are different in complexity, function and size, the development time for each varies enormously. Some are extremely large and complex whilst others are relatively simple. Therefore, it is impossible to provide an accurate estimate unless we have a written specification.

However, to give an indication, a very simple database could cost £1,000 to £2,000. Something of average complexity is typically in the £3,000 to £8,000 range. Larger systems can be anything over £10,000.

How do I go about drawing up a database specification?

We have written documentation on how to do this. Please contact us for details. Alternatively, we can write the specification for you. There is usually a fee should this process take some time. The first hour is given free of charge.

Who pays for bug fixes?

When designing computer software, a large proportion of the time is spent fixing things that don’t work initially. Therefore, if we have missed something that does not work but should, it takes further development time for a fix. Consequently, if we are billing you on a time and materials basis we need to charge for this extra work. The alternative is for us to charge for bug fixes at outset, but then you may end up paying for work that is not required.

Can we upgrade our database later?

Yes. Most companies find their database needs evolve over time. E.g. they need new reports, more information needs storing and modifications are required to the way information is viewed or entered. The database is completely flexible to meet your changing needs.

How do you go about these upgrades?

We can do the vast majority over the Internet. You provide us with the modifications required and then we email you an updated database. This ensures a rapid turnaround so you get the added functionality faster.

What support can you offer?

2. Site visit - use when telephone support cannot resolve the problem or is unsuitable.

3. Video - we can create a computer based video on how to tackle your particular technical support problem. This comes in at a small premium but has many advantages. You'll see and hear an expert solve your problems and it can be played again and again to cement learning. Also, some support lends itself to demonstration more than verbal description.

In addition to supporting any database we create for you, we can also support any existing MS Access database.

Can you convert our existing database to Microsoft Access?

In most cases, yes. Additionally, we often find that enhancements can be made in the conversion. Therefore, a wish list of changes is recommended.

Can we import our existing data?

It depends. So long as it’s in a similar format to the receiving database there shouldn’t be a problem. If it isn't, our programmers can often manipulate the data so that it does fit. Call us for advice.

Would our new database be Year 2000 Compliant?

Yes

Can you convert our older Microsoft Access version to the newer version?

Yes. If you have an Access 2.0 or 95 database, you may be aware of its potential YK2000 problems. We can help you convert these older versions to the latest version for full Year 2000 bullet-proofing.

How long will it take to get our database from you?

It depends on two things:

1. How complete and accurate is the specification you supply us with.
2. How fast you answer any questions we may have.
3. Our current workload.

We can give you an estimate once a specification is available.

Do you charge for drawing up an estimate?

No, so long as you provide us with a detailed and complete written specification. If you have not got a written specification, then you will need one. We charge a fee for creating a Functional Specification, with the first hour free of charge.

How do you charge?

We normally charge on a Time & Materials basis. However, we can quote a Fixed Fee if required.

Contact Details