>(1) Is it possible to have 6 databases, each with many tables, open and running as part of one project? As I understand, only one db can be open at one time.
Yes. It is possible. In own current project we operate with 4 DBs.
>(2) Is it possible to have running, more than one executable and each executable exchanging information with the other?
This is possible too, but not with Memory variables (AFAIK). You can exchange info via Tables, XML, text files.
Against Stupidity the Gods themselves Contend in Vain - Johann Christoph Friedrich von Schiller
The only thing normal about database guys is their tables.