Planning to replace Access? A roadmap for decision-makers.

Rolf Borkowski
How can I support you?

Rolf Borkowski
Senior Expert Project Manager

+41.. Show number +41 55 253 00 53

Numerous companies in Switzerland still work with applications based on outdated technologies on a daily basis. These include Microsoft Access, the Delphi programming language, classic PHP applications, old .NET versions or even Excel solutions that have long outgrown their original area of application.

Many Access solutions are outdated, poorly documented, and now hinder modern, secure business processes.

  • Old systems such as Access hinder efficiency, security, and further development
  • A structured analysis is the first step toward replacement
  • Sustainable replacement requires experience, strategy, and technical expertise

We offer solutions for your problems.

  • When does support for Microsoft Access end?

    Mainstream support for Access 2019 will run until October 2025, after which only limited security updates will be available.

  • How long does a typical Access migration take?

    Experience shows that it can take anywhere from a few weeks for simple solutions to six months for large systems with lots of forms and reports.

  • Will my Access forms still be usable after the migration?

    Yes, with a backend migration to SQL Server or Dataverse, your existing forms can continue to run while the data is already in the new environment.

  • Can I move my existing Access solution to the cloud?

    Yes, Access data can be made cloud-ready using a combination of SQL Server or Dataverse and Power Apps.

  • Outsourcing Access migration – what to look out for?

    Important factors include: experience with Access projects, a structured approach, references from similar industries, and transparent communication about costs, risks, and target technologies.

Why access migration fails so often

Many people believe that replacing an old Access database is simple: export the data, set it up again, done. The reality is different:

  • The complexity of the processes has grown over the years.
  • The database has been optimized several times with logics that nobody understands anymore.
  • There is a lack of resources and IT expertise to tackle the whole thing in a structured way.

Thanks to our many years of experience in modernizing Access solutions, we can offer tailor-made solutions for complex challenges. One example is the migration from Microsoft Access to SQL Server.

Preparatory steps

Before the migration begins, a few preparatory steps should be taken. First of all, a thorough analysis of the current Access databases is required. The existing data structures, tables and relationships should be examined in detail.

It is equally important to understand the business processes, not just the code, because only those who understand the processes behind the data can develop a sustainable solution. The company’s specific requirements must then be identified in order to develop a suitable migration strategy.

Choosing the right migration option is also crucial. Whether a complete redevelopment, the use of a low-code platform or an off-the-shelf solution is the best choice depends on individual needs. It is advisable to enlist the support of an expert in order to successfully implement the migration.

Grafik zum Thema Access Migration auf englisch

5 reasons that speak in favor of migration

  • Security gaps remain open

    Outdated systems are no longer maintained. New threats encounter old vulnerabilities. In the worst case scenario, this can paralyze entire processes.

  • Specialist knowledge disappears

    The developers who still know the code change companies or retire. Those who stay can no longer find their way around the chaos.

  • Costs explode over time

    Every new workaround makes the system more complex. The longer you wait, the more effort is required for a clean replacement.

  • No chance of modern solutions

    Cloud, interfaces, automation: others have been modernizing for a long time and work faster, more efficiently and more flexibly. If you delay too long, you will lose out to the competition.

  • Data quality suffers

    Outdated systems make clean processes difficult. Errors creep in, data is maintained manually or entered twice.

Anastasia Schmuck, Projektmanager at soxes

SQL Server as successor

An SQL Server database offers numerous advantages over outdated systems. As a relational database, SQL is scalable, reliable and secure, making it a logical progression for Access users. An SQL Server supports the management of large amounts of data and the execution of complex queries, making it an ideal choice for companies looking to move their applications and processes to a cloud-based platform.

Compare databases

Before the migration begins, the different databases should be compared in order to make the right choice. A thorough analysis of the functions, advantages and disadvantages of each database is particularly important. The specific requirements and objectives of the company should be taken into account.

Which database offers the best performance for the required applications? Which platform offers the highest security and scalability? By comparing the different options, your company can make the best choice and ensure that your applications and processes are migrated successfully.

Outdated Access database? Let's talk about alternatives.

Old systems slow you down. We migrate cleanly and future-proof.

  • We analyze even complex systems
  • We modernize for the future of your business

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Do you have any questions? Would you like to find out more about our services?
We look forward to your enquiry.

Sofia Steninger
Solution Sales Manager