> Hello,
>
> I do not have a lot of experience with writing Database programs and
> have recently been giving the challange of creating one for a company
> that sells auto parts. They have roughly 8,000 different pieces to
> keep track of, along with other things.
>
> They currently have a program, but it doesn't control the stock the
> way they want it to. They want me to write a program that can
> provide all of the functions they are needing. I said "great, lets
> get started".
>
> My plan is to use Dephli with Firebird.
>
> My questions are:
>
> Where do I start? I believe Dephli needs to have the database
> already built, therefore I need to provide delphi with a database
> with all of the information.
>
> If I can export their existing database information (Names, part
> numbers and descriptions, etc) from their existing DB, can I do this
> with Firebird?

there are many export tools to use

>
> Does Firebird have a way to create a database or is it just the
> engine that runs and supports a database? I have been reading about
> Firebird, but don't really see how it can create a database.
>

you will need to use an admin tool - of which there are also many to choose
from

> I believe that if I have a Firebird database and use Firebird client
> and server applications that this will work. Question is, what is
> the best way to approach this task?

you will need to choose a connectivity layer to use from Delphi, there are
also any to choose from. My personal recommendation is IBO

>
> Any advice or ideas would be greatly appreciated.
>
> Thanks for your time.......mike
>

Best place to start is at www.ibphoenix.com which has all the gumph you need
to make an informed decision - you can use trial version of many opf these
products to inform yourself further
Alan