Most offices use Microsoft Office software with Word, Excel,Powerpoint, Outlook and Access available. Using the Microsoft Access database as the central core of these business tools (see later) it is possible to make the most out of a company's stored data.

Microsoft Access is commonly classified as a database, when in fact it actually performs two key roles. First it is a database where data is stored in tables and transferred to forms & reports by using queries. Second it is also a graphical user interface and programming environment where, with the use of the VBA software we can make comprehensive 'intelligent' applications to make the most of storing and using the data.

For instance, using Microsoft Access's software it is possible to open a Word document , edit it and save it - all from the push of a button. Given a customer list and a number of standard document templates the range of possible applications is evident. Similarly, mail merge functions can be used for mass mailing - again all from a click of a button.