View information about Object Dependency

If your database contained several tables and you wanted to delete a table, Access 2003 provides a big timesaver by letting you view the objects dependent on the table you want to delete. If you have a query or report that is dependent on the old table, you can change or delete the dependent object first to minimize errors and keep the database clean and consistent.

Form and Report Error Checking

Access 2003 includes better error checking for things like two commands assigned to the same keystroke combination or warning you if a formatted report is too big for the page it will be printed on.

Automatic Updating of Field Properties

If you change a field from a numerical data type to a text data type, Access 2003 will automatically propagate the formatting change to any controls bound to that field.

Smart Tags

Access 2003 includes the ability to use Smart Tags which allow easy manual insertion or automatic insertion of data, like today’s date, into a field.

Backup Database

In addition to the normal Save functionality, Access 2003 allows you to make a separate backup of the entire database before performing some major change.

XML Support

Access 2003 data can be exported as XML for your specific application. XML documents can also be imported for use in your database.

SharePoint Services

Contents of a table, report, or query can be imported and exported to a Windows SharePoint Services List.

Information Protection

Access 2003 now features customizable levels of macro security and the ability to block Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) code.

Access 2003 also features the ability to block potentially unsafe functions from being performed on your data. For example, if function code like Kill or Shell is featured in the code from an outside source, Access will block its execution unless you specifically allow the code to run.

Windows Themes and Tablet PC Support

Access 2003 supports non-standard Windows themes throughout the entire program. If you have a Tablet PC, Access features better handwriting support and the ability to rotate the screen to landscape mode.

More SQL Functionality

Access 2003 query design view lets high-contrast and colour fonts to be used for visually impaired users.

Access also features context-based help while building queries using Jet SQL and VBA code. Press F1 while your cursor is near keywords to show help and examples.