Laura Phillips

Ball State University

The biology department maintains a nationally-known orchid collection.  An Access application allowed the curator to maintain information about each orchid's background, greenhouse location, flower history, and repotting history.  The database was located in the curator's office, while observation was done in the greenhouse.

When the curator made changes, she had to note them on paper and then update the database at her desk.  There is information stored in this application on nearly 1200 individual plants. 

Forms Development Time:

1-2 days

Installation:

A Pendragon Form is linked to the Access application and database.  When an orchid is added, moved, flowers or is re-potted, the curator can enter the information into the form on the handheld while in the greenhouse and synchronize upon return to the office.

Benefits:

The user doesn't have to record information twice and has historical information at hand as she works with the plants.