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?
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?
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 up to £30,000 and more!
We have included the steps required for your convenience.
Alternatively, we can help with this process. There is usually a
fee should this process take some time. The first hour is given
free of charge.
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.
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.
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.
1. By phone - to ensure rapid response to your needs. This
helps keep support costs down. Telephone support is billed by the
minute, subject to a minimum charge per call.
2. Site visit - use when telephone support cannot resolve
the problem or is unsuitable.
In addition to supporting any database we create for you, we can
also support any existing MS Access database.
In most cases, yes. Additionally, we often find that enhancements
can be made in the conversion. Therefore, a wish list of changes
is recommended.
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.
Yes.
It depends on two things:
- How complete and accurate is the specification you supply us
with.
- How fast you answer any questions we may have.
- Our current workload.
We can give you an estimate once a specification is available.
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.
We normally charge a fixed fee for all work done.
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