Question : Is this setup in a workable fashion?

Hi - before I start asking how to do things, first I would like to ask if this database is setup in such a way that would even allow it to be worked with.

I have tables that are linked from a master database so I cannot change how they are setup.  A sample is attached.  Please note how the Main table appears normal (with one ID number per row) and the other Phone Number table has the ID numbers on multiple rows with various phone numbers.

I am trying to make a query where everything is NORMAL (meaning one ID number per row and all the information on that one row).  Everything I try is creating a mess.  It creates multiple rows row each ID number OR for those that dont have a phone number it doesn't show them at all.  This is a mess!  Are databases even supposed to be made like the Master it is feeding from?  Please see sample attached.

Answer : Is this setup in a workable fashion?

Ok, here is the deal.

Now this post is rather long and meant to be humorous as well as informative.
It is littered with "Smileys", so as not to be taken as being offensive.
Mkay?
;-)



Your structure itself prevents this from being easy.
Even what I was going to propose would have been what you have called a "Band-Aid"

As you stated:


So when you say:
"This is not the way I need the data"

Then it is clear that you have been working with Flat file Excel type tables.

But as the other experts have pointed out:
This is Access, play time is over, and you are in the big leagues now.
;-)
You have to change your thinking and learn new techniques for querying relational data.
It may not be easy or fun, but it is part of the learning process.

Insisting that you be able to manipulate related data in Access like a flat file, is like an Adult insisting that the training wheels be left on their bicycle, because it is "easier" and "The way I am used to"
;-)

I know of no adults still riding bikes with training wheels.
I know of no Access developer who needs or wants "Flat files", (the way you are wanting them), magically created from related data.

Again, you are the first person in over 3,500 questions I have answered who has ever taken issue with this.
Millions of people go about there lives querying related data using the standard techniques and none of them need any "training wheels"
;-)
As a matter of fact, every one of your scenarios can be remedied, if only you would just take the time to look into these different techniques and queries.
Again, it may not be simple, but it is part of the learning process.
For example:
If you do the query "Right", John Doe will get only one email, not three.
(no training wheels required)
See the attached sample:
Again, not simple, but I am a Big boy who took off his Access "Training Wheels" 7 years ago.
;-)


(Can I ask if database development is something that you have no interest in, because it was simply "Thrust upon you"?)


If this is your point of view, then you will be fighting with this issue for your entire career in Access and relational databases.

For example, in this question you appear to be "Stuck" as you say.

So.....
How will you accomplish what you are after if it is more or less impossible?
The data structure cannot be changed, and you cant get the view you are after.
So where does that leave you?
You appear to be at an impasse
What will you do?
I'm curious?
;-)


Please take a moment to think over the advice we experts have given you.
Take the entire weekend if you like.

Then post back with you final thoughts.
;-)

Respectfully,

JeffCoachman

Access-BasicSampleEmailIndividua.mdb (328 KB) (File Type Details) 

1 Customer, One email, many Orders, No Training wheels :-)