Access

Server (Cloud Hosted)

Data storage

Each project is stored in a seperate Access database typically stored in your project directory.

Data for all projects/sites in the company are centrally stored in the single Server database

Multi-site/project data access

Only one project/site can be opened at a time

Data across multiple projects/sites can be opened at the same time.

User Access

Over a Local Area (ie Office) Network

From anywhere (if Licenced)

User Interfaces

ESdat Desktop Only

ESdat Desktop for power users.  For other users the web interface provides a simpler and easier option.  Both interfaces access the same Server database.

Security

The database is stored as a file on the network.

All users require permissions to access the data, permissions can be controlled at the Project level.

Reference Lists

Are managed seperately for each project

ChemCodes, Environmental Standards and other lists can be centrally managed for application to any project.

Data Volume

Access databases are adequate for the data requirements for most investigations.  They may become slow if operating over a network or as file size increases.

There is no effective limit on the data volume in a SQL Server