RetroTech: Access 95 - The Atrocity That Taught Me About Relational Databases
In the realm of retro software, Microsoft Access for Windows 95 holds a special place in my heart. It may seem surprising, but this clunky yet somehow elegant application played a pivotal role in shaping my understanding of relational databases and kickstarting my career in software development. Let me take you on a journey back to the days of Windows 95, when I first crossed paths with Access.
Before the era of Microsoft Office suites, Access stood as a standalone database application. While there were earlier versions for Windows 3/3.1, it wasn’t until Windows 95 that I had the chance to dive into its world. I was just a curious 6-year-old at the time, eager to explore the possibilities of this new software.
Trying to create anything useful in Access from scratch without prior experience seemed like a near-impossible task. However, the developers had a stroke of genius by including a sample business product database. This sample database was a goldmine for a beginner like me; it was easily reverse-engineered and provided invaluable insights into database design and structure. Looking back, this experience was not just about learning Access but also marked the beginning of my journey into the world of reverse engineering software.
You might wonder, why do I credit Access with such significance in my learning journey? The answer lies in its simplicity. At that young age, the complexities of a ‘real’ database system would have been overwhelming. Access, with its user-friendly interface and semi-robust programming language (VBA), bridged the gap for me. It allowed me to grasp the fundamental aspects of a database system: building data entry forms, generating reports, designing navigation forms, and even delving into the realm of Business Logic.
As I progressed in my career, the foundation laid by Access proved to be invaluable. Many of the clients I worked with had built extensive Access applications that needed to be migrated to server-based database systems. This challenge catapulted me into the professional world, deepening my understanding and expertise in database management systems.
Who would have thought that a piece of software released just two months before I was born would play such a pivotal role in my early education and professional development? Microsoft Access for Windows 95 will always hold a special place in my journey, reminding me of the atrocity that became a cornerstone in my career.
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In the realm of retro software, Microsoft Access for Windows 95 holds a special place in my heart. It may seem surprising, but this clunky yet somehow elegant application played a pivotal role in shaping my understanding of relational databases and kickstarting my career in software development. Let me take you on a journey back to the days of Windows 95, when I first crossed paths with Access.
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