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Question:
Can ExpressMaintenance interface with other software applications?
Answer:
Occasionally, users desire to interface ExpressMaintenance with
accounting programs and other software applications. This can be
easily accomplished with most applications using commonly available
tools. While ExpressMaintenance does not interface directly with
specific applications, simple programs can be developed to accomplish
the interfacing of data.
ExpressMaintenance is based on Microsoft SQL Server. This means
that all data is stored in a MS SQL Server database. MS SQL Server
is the most accessible (open) database platform available with proper
security access of course. You can use virtually any type of
development tool or utility to access data in MS SQL Sever. You
can even use simple applications such as MS Access and Excel to develop
ODBC or ADO interfaces to the ExpressMaintenance data.
Utilities and
applications can read and write data to and from the ExpressMaintenance
database tables. We also furnish ExpressUtility which allows you to view
and print the ExpressMaintenance database table schemas. You can
download ExpressUtility and begin examining the table schemas at any
time - click here to
download ExpressUtility. You can also use ExpressUtility to
examine same data to see how it is stored in each field and
relationships. In
addition, our technical support personnel will answer any questions you
have about table relationships.
You will need
to use an in-house or external developer to develop the interface to
read / write data between ExpressMaintenance tables and the desired
third party application. Once the utility is tested and working, the Windows
scheduler can be used to automatically trigger the utility to run at the
desired intervals and times.
Common
applications include parts receiving / ordering, purchase orders and
work order expenses. Because each customer's desires and
accounting programs are different, the interface utility must be custom
developed. This is best accomplished by an in-house or local
developer who can further enhance and expand the program as needed.
Such interfaces do not require a large amount of time to develop and can
be easily accomplished by a junior programmer. |
