The only hard part about ODBC is how to explain it! There are a
series of technical terms that the average rocket scientist could really appreciate but
they would not really explain how easy ODBC is to use. Put simply, ODBC allows you to use
your data (Customer, Supplier, Accounting, etc.) more easily and without the help of a
programmer.
For instance, ODBC allows clients to seamlessly integrate data
stored in a database with ODBC-compliant applications such as Microsoft™ Word™,
Microsoft Excel™ or Microsoft Access™.
ODBC Example
Let's say you want to send a letter to a select group, introducing a new product
that is applicable only to certain customers.
The Old Way
The old way of sending out a custom cover letter and special package is very
time consuming. First you must find a way the get your data into your word processing
system. Otherwise, you have to re-key the customer information manually for each
letter. Then you need to somehow filter your list to include only certain customers. Next
you need to insert the data in the correct place in the letter. This process is
frustrating, time consuming and prone to errors.
With ODBC
You select all the parameters from one area. For example, in MS Word, you can
use the Mail Merge Wizard. Word actually reads your customer information (or what ever
else you want) directly from your data. No imports or exports. This is a real-time lookup
of your critical information.
Create your letter and select the areas where you want the data
inserted.
Indicate where the data should be read from. Select the type of
customer by filtering your list.
Merge the data into the document and send out the letter on your
letterhead. Easy! And CSB Systems can help you get started.
ODBC is a standard method that Windows-based products use to share
data. Clients can directly access data rather than use import/exports routines to
accumulate data. With ODBC, you can use many of the powerful applications on the market
today to access your critical data.
What will ODBC do for you?
ODBC
