The Quick Access Toolbar is still here in 2013 and lies across the top of the Ribbon. The commands are clear and precise and it looks to be moving towards touch screen operation, which is a clear trend for usage as time progresses. The 2013 Ribbon Menu Interface looks cleaner and is a fresh approach. You can nevertheless still create 'local' databases from some of the templates provided.

SQL Server is used to power the back end and look after data integrity for you. However, in order to host it, you will need SharePoint server or an Office 365 subscription that includes sites.

To build one, just select the type of data you need to use and let Access create the structure, views and navigation buttons automatically, saving you time and effort. An Access Web App is a new type of database that you build and use and can be shared with others via SharePoint as a SharePoint app in a web browser. Access now has some abilities in this area to produce an app. Time is of the essence - so a simple way to quickly produce a database rather than going through lengthy design steps is a real advantage. But these are in the early stages of development, and for people use Access for creating and running conventional databases, these is little of interest apart from some usability improvements. In this regard, there is specific functionality for Apps and Cloud storage.

The over-riding strategy with 2013 is that Microsoft is moving the focus of Access from creating databases to creating database applications.

Microsoft access 2013 online