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Sample Directory Application

This example shows how authorized visitors to your Web site can update their companies' records in a database that you maintain. The example is based on a real-life directory of approximately 8000 metals suppliers; the principles apply to any collection of product or services information that can be represented in an ODBC-compliant database (here, we use Microsoft Access).

The mechanics of the update process are simple. We assign a unique access code to each company represented in the database, and communicate that access code in a secure manner (fax or phone) to the person at each company who is responsible for updating the firm's information. Armed with this access code, the person calls up his/her company's record, makes the required changes and submits them. The record gets immediately updated, and the updater gets immediate confirmation of that update.

To see the process in action, enter Access Code 12345 in the field below, then press the button. You will be presented with a series of screens for a fictitious company and will have the opportunity to change any data you see. Please feel free to do so; this is not a "live" database.

Note: On the next screen you will see two required fields for the name and phone number of the person updating the record. In a real directory update situation, these fields would allow us to track who last updated each company's record. In this example, however, they are less important. You don't have to enter your real name and phone number if you don't wish to; however, you must enter some (possibly fictitious) name and some (possibly fictitious) phone number to be able to experience the entire updating process.