Introduction
MS Access is a database management system (DBMS) that allows users to create, manage, and analyze large data sets. The latest version of Access, Access 2019, was released in 2018 and introduced several new features and improvements over the previous version, Access 2016. This article will compare the two versions and highlight the key differences, including new features, enhancements, and changes in the user interface and user experience.
New Features in Microsoft Access 2019
Microsoft Access 2019 includes several new features and improvements over Access 2016. These new features aim to improve the user experience, enhance data security, and provide more advanced data analysis capabilities. Some of the key new features in Access 2019 are:
Improved Query Design Tools
Access 2019 has made creating and modifying queries easier, with an improved query design experience. The new “Query Design” view provides a more streamlined and intuitive interface, and the “Show Table” option has been enhanced to provide more context when selecting tables and fields. The query builder now includes a “Group By” option that allows users to group data more flexibly and efficiently.
Enhanced Security Features
Access 2019 has improved its security features to help prevent unauthorized access to data. It now includes encrypting databases with a password, and users can set permissions to control who can view, edit, and delete data.
New Chart Types
Access 2019 includes several new chart types, such as funnel charts and sunburst charts, allowing users to visualize data creatively. The new chart types are fully customizable, allowing users to tailor them to their needs.
Data Type Enhancements
Access 2019 includes enhancements to the data types supported by the database. Users can now create fields with new data types, such as “Long Text” and “Short Text,” and the “Number” data type now supports more decimal places.
Support for a Large Number of Controls and Objects
Access 2019 has improved its support for large numbers of controls and objects, making it easier for users to manage complex databases with many forms, reports, and other things. Users can now create up to 10,000 controls and 2,000 forms, reports, and other objects per database, significantly improving over the previous limit of 754 controls and objects in Access 2016.
Features Retained from Microsoft Access 2016
While Microsoft Access 2019 has introduced many new features and improvements, it has retained several vital features from Access 2016. These features are crucial for users who are used to the Access 2016 interface and want to continue working in a familiar environment.
Ribbon Interface and Navigation
Access 2019 has retained the ribbon interface and navigation system from Access 2016. This includes the Quick Access Toolbar, which allows users to customize their frequently used commands, and the ribbon interface, which provides easy access to all the commands and features in the application. The navigation system, including the navigation pane, remains unchanged, allowing users to navigate their database objects easily.
Macros and VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) Support
Access 2019 continues to support Macros and VBA, essential tools for automating tasks and customizing the user interface. Users can create and run macros, which are sequences of actions that can be applied to a database, and they can also use VBA to create custom functions, automate tasks, and add custom controls to their forms and reports.
Compatibility with Previous Access Versions
Access 2019 is backwards compatible with Access 2016 and previous access versions, ensuring users can continue working with their existing databases without any issues. Users can open and edit Access 2016 databases in Access 2019, and vice versa, without worrying about compatibility issues.
Same UI Layout and Experience
The user interface layout and experience of Access 2019 remain largely the same as Access 2016. This includes the same colour scheme, icons, and font styles, ensuring users can transition between the two versions without learning an entirely new interface. The familiar interface makes it easier for users to work with Access 2019, as they are already familiar with the application and do not have to spend time learning a new interface.
Key Differences between Microsoft Access 2019 and Microsoft Access 2016
Microsoft Access 2019 has several key differences when compared to Access 2016. These differences include user interface and navigation improvements, compatibility with other Office Suite apps, support for SharePoint and OneDrive, performance and stability improvements, and improved integration with O365 Cloud Services.
User Interface and Navigation Changes
Access 2019 has made several changes to the user interface and navigation, including a new colour scheme, icon set, and improved accessibility features. The Backstage view has also been revamped to provide easier access to database settings and options. The Navigation Pane has also been updated to improve usability and customization options.
Compatibility with Other Office Suite Apps
Access 2019 is designed to work seamlessly with other Office Suite apps, including Excel and Outlook. This includes the ability to import and export data between access and other apps and the ability to use other Office Suite apps to enhance access functionality.
Support for SharePoint and OneDrive
Access 2019 also has improved support for SharePoint and OneDrive, making it easier for users to share and collaborate on databases with others. This includes storing databases in the cloud, accessing databases from multiple devices, and managing database permissions and security.
Performance and Stability Improvements
Access 2019 has made several improvements to performance and stability, including faster load times for large databases, improved indexing and query optimization, and better error handling and reporting.
Improved Integration with O365 Cloud Services
Access 2019 has improved integration with O365 Cloud Services, making it easier for users to access and manage their databases from any device, anywhere. This includes the ability to store and share databases in the cloud, as well as the ability to use O365 services to enhance the functionality of access.
Which Version is Right for You?
When deciding between Access 2019 and Access 2016, several factors must be considered. These include costs, licensing requirements, user needs and compatibility, and future-proofing your Access environment.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Access 2019 and Access 2016
Factors to consider when choosing between Access 2019 and Access 2016 include the size and complexity of your databases, the need for cloud-based storage and collaboration, and the availability of new features and functionality in Access 2019. Additionally, users should consider the level of support and maintenance required for each version and the compatibility of the version with other systems and applications.
Costs and Licensing Requirements
Users should also consider each version’s costs and licensing requirements, including any ongoing maintenance and support costs. Access 2019 may have higher initial costs than Access 2016, but it also provides long-term cost savings by reducing the need for maintenance and support.
User Needs and Compatibility
Ultimately, the decision between Access 2019 and Access 2016 should be based on the user’s needs and compatibility requirements. If users require access to new features and functionality or need to work with cloud-based storage and collaboration, then Access 2019 may be the better choice. However, if users are comfortable with Access 2016 and do not require the new features, they may want to stick with Access 2016.
Future-proofing Your Access Environment
Lastly, users should consider future-proofing their Access environment by choosing the version that will best support their needs in the long term. This includes considering the future direction of Microsoft Access, as well as any plans for upgrading or migrating to other databases.
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