Hello Ben;

As with just about any programming topic you would have to have bits and pieces from many books and still not know very much.

Three concepts I would suggest as you know your specific needs best:

1. Create the document necessary to reference the degree of knowledge necessary.

2. Create VFP forms that will allow data to be manipulated as is required.

3. Create prg’s to manipulate the data as required.

I have done all three and they are all time savers. By the way I have written many technical manuals. Having a strong background in electronics engineering I dislike the computer books of today that have 1500 pages and one sentence of true value.

My approach to creating technical documentation is to be brief, concise, have a good table of contents and show meaningful examples. Depending upon the complexity of the topic I will sometimes create “layers” within a document. That is an overview in one part and detail in another with an accurate reference. It would not take long to create such a document to teach others how to use data in VFP. Just do not use ten pounds of ink and paper where a few lines will work. :)

An example of what I consider an outstanding computer book was created in the early 1980's by Niklaus Wirth, on the topic of Pascal, from whom I learned Pascal. It had 86 pages and got to the heart and soul of the subject. I have over a dozen books on Pascal written by the more recent concept of “the more pages the better”, and they are of little real value. To say something you know well and to teach it to others should take few words.

Tom


>Hello All,
>
>My employers are looking to introduce some form of basic Fox training for new database analysts. The role is such that we normally just go through the basics of table and file manipulation with new starters and then make ourselves available if they need help.
>
>However, we've been looking to get some sort of training material together. Nothing too heavy, we're wanting to train people on loading and manipulating data with Visual FoxPro not develop Client/Server apps. I've brought in books like the Hacker's Guide, which although well received by my colleagues are above the level we're looking for. One none technical colleague enquired as to the existence of a "Visual FoxPro for Dummies" book, which there was around four years ago but is only available through overpriced second hand bookstores (to the best of my knowledge)
>
>My question is this? Can anybody recommend a basic level FoxPro book or other training material that isn't the (in my opinion wonderful) Hacker's Guide nor the standard Fox documentation?
>
>How do other Fox professionals train up fresh blood?
>
>As ever, much thanks in advance for any help or feedback,
>
>Regards,
>
>Ben