3 alternatives to MS Access

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Anastasia Schmuck
Project Manager

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For many small and medium-sized companies, Microsoft Access has been an important tool for creating databases quickly and easily. However, it is now reaching its limits: It lacks scalability, modern integration and a real focus from Microsoft. This is why more and more users are looking for alternatives.

Access alternatives for your company

Replacing Microsoft Access is recommended when the demands on the database increase and Access reaches its limits. Typical reasons for this are

Data growth: Access quickly reaches its limits with large amounts of data.
Teamwork: Simultaneous access by several users is often problematic.
Security: Sensitive data can only be protected to a limited extent.
Integration: Connecting to modern IT systems and tools is complicated.
Loss of expertise: If employees with access expertise leave, problems often remain (keyword: loss of knowledge!)

In this article, we present three options for replacing Microsoft Access: Low-code/no-code platforms, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions and modern (customised) web applications.

1. low-code/no-code platforms

Low-code/no-code platforms enable companies to develop powerful applications without extensive programming knowledge – ideal for teams that need results quickly. One example is the Ninox platform, which offers user-friendly, web-based solutions and data protection compliance. This enabled an industrial company to replace Microsoft Access with a low-code platform and develop an application with real-time data access and seamless ERP and CRM integration, increasing efficiency, collaboration and cost effectiveness.

Low-Code/No-Code: Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
User-friendly No or little programming knowledge required - employees can develop applications independently.	Cost Subscription fees are often high, especially for large teams and advanced features.
Speed Applications are created quickly thanks to ready-made modules.	Limited customisation Customisation options quickly reach their limits without individual programming.
Flexibility Easy integration with external tools and APIs.	Provider lock-in Dependency makes subsequent migrations more difficult and expensive.
Web and mobile access Applications are web-based and can often be used on the move, making them accessible from anywhere.	Security risk Cloud services require trust in the platform's security measures.

2. SaaS solutions

Many companies rely on SaaS-solutions to increase efficiency and conserve IT resources. This flexible and cost-effective alternative to traditional programmes such as MS Access is better suited to the modern way of working. For example, many companies use Salesforce to optimise contact management, sales automation and customer service. It enables quick access to customer data, simplifies the management and analysis of data records and thus increases efficiency and accuracy – without the need for an in-house infrastructure.

SaaS solutions: Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Accessibility Access from any device with internet - ideal for remote working and collaboration.	Data control Data is held by the provider, which can raise concerns about security and data protection.
Cost efficiency Subscription-based; you only pay for what you use.	Limited customisation Fewer customisation options than with self-hosted solutions.
Maintenance-free The provider takes care of updates and maintenance, relieving the burden on IT and providing up-to-date functions.	Subscription costs Long-term costs can be high, especially for large teams and additional functions.
Integration Easy connection to existing systems and additional functions

We offer solutions for your problems.

Is the performance of your Access database slowing down and you fear data loss? Do you need a solution that brings stability and efficiency?
Your data is constantly growing and Access is reaching its limits - are you planning a transition to a scalable solution?
Are you facing the challenge of migrating an outdated Access database to a modern IT environment - are you looking for experts to make the transition smooth?

3. customised web applications

A customised web application offers a flexible, platform-independent solution that is tailored precisely to your processes. It improves collaboration, integration and scalability, increases security and enables automated maintenance – without dependence on individuals. It also integrates existing tools such as Slack and Google Workspace and fulfils special requirements such as reporting and data analysis.

Individual web applications: Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Accessibility Access from any device with internet - ideal for remote working.	Costs Development can be more costly and time-consuming at the beginning.
Scalability Applications grow with your data and user numbers.	Complexity The development of a customised web application requires considerable technical expertise and resources.
Integration Easy connection to web services, APIs and cloud tools.	Longer development time Customized applications usually require more time to develop and implement compared to ready-made standard solutions.
Maintenance Centralised updates guarantee up-to-date functions and security.
Individuality No patchwork of functions - every component and requirement is customised for your company.
Personal contact You always have someone who knows your solution and can develop it further.
Code ownership After agreement, the code belongs to you and you retain control.

We are happy to help you with the replacement of Microsoft Access – whether low-code/no-code, SaaS or a customised web application. With our experience in all three areas, we will find the best solution for your data and help you to optimise your internal processes. Get in touch with us and let’s get started together!

How can we support you with your software project?