Error for multiple users merging data from Access into Word 2003

[Guest]

Hello.

I have multiple users who access a Microsoft Access database. The issue I
have is that when a user is in the database, a different user is unable to
merge data from that database, as Word states that the database file is
already in use (which is it). When no one is in the database, all users can
merge without issue.

When I try to merge data from the database already in use, the error message
is as follows: "Test connection failed becuase of an error in initializing
provider. Could not use "; file already in use".

Is there any simple way that I can make Word 'forget' that the file is
already in use and open the database to merge from it regardless?

We have 5 users using Microsoft Office 2003 and the databse is stored on a
shared drive. Thanks.

 

[Joseph Meehan]

What I am about to suggest may not fix your problem, but is a good idea
anyway and it may.

First, is it possible that one or more of your users are opening the
database "exclusively?" If so that is likely the problem.

Second are you using a split database system. That is the data stored
on the file (back end) on the server and each user opening their own copy of
a "front end" file on their own machine and only linking to the back end
data. Queries forms reports etc all in the front ends?

Split databases are almost always more stable and less troublesome.
They also work faster.

 

[Guest]

Thanks....I have made sure that all users open the DB in shared mode, so
don't think this is the problem. However, I'm going to experiment with
splitting the DB and will post my response here.

 

[Guest]

I've tried to suggestions - no good. Still getting the same issue!

Anyone got any other ideas please?

 

[Joseph Meehan]

I hope someone with some better ideas will come along. Sorry I could
not help.