Using forms for data entry

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Guest

I am using a form to populate my database. I have several calculated
currency fields on my form. They execute properly on the form but the data
isn't going to the table. Any suggestions?
 
You should not be storing calculated fields in a table. Store the fields
that make up that calculation and when you need the calculation, perform it
in your query, form, or report. To store the calculation and the parts that
make it up would be redundant. What would happen if one of the numbers in
your calculation was changed; how would the other field update?
 
If one of the multipliers from the calculation changed the answer on the form
would immediately change also. I was assuming the number in the table would
change also once I re-saved the data. Of course if I can't get the answer
directly to the table from the form that is a moot point. I suppose I could
enter the data directly into the table but I was hoping to have this task
automated. Thanks for responding so quickly.
 
Again, proper database design would say that you DON'T store calculations.
Why do you feel you need this calculation stored in your table? When you
need the calculation in your field, report, or query, then calculate it.
 
What I am trying to accomplish is to use the form to enter the table data
instead of using the table data to populate the form. I'm trying to create a
work orders database and I want the calculated fields of our total charges
for labor, materials and equipment to be stored on each record so our
department can bill the charges to other departments. I apologize if I sound
overly ignorant about these matters but I'm new to this and I've been
swimming through text books to get to where I am so far. Is there someone
who offers a database review service whom I can send this to for a fee? I'm
beginning to believe I haven't set this thing up in the most efficient
manner. I appreciate your patience with me.
 
When you need to "bill the charge to other department" you would add the
labor, materials, and equipment together.

No need to store a calculation.

Why don't you stop and go take a look at the Northwinds sample database that
ships with Access and look at how it handles line totals and invoice totals?
 
Thank you I'll do that. I'm now see what you mean about not storing the
calculation data also.
 
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