Many business needs cannot be met by off-the shelf software products. Often a customer is forced to modify their business to fit a software product, rather than the software matching the business operation. When only simple accounting is required, QuickBooks usually fills the need. When specific information is required to supplement normal accounting, however, a custom database with unique data tables, queries, interface forms, and specialized reports is desired.

Anyone can build a simple Access database (such as a recipe or video collection database) using the built-in Access wizards. More complex databases usually require a professional programmer versed in database design, event-driven programming, and user-interface construction. Pressley Consulting has created databases for a variety of specific needs, such as tracking hospital pledges, running a plumbing business, administering financial portfolios, and  managing organization memberships. These software solutions have been cost-effective and successful.

In addition to Access programming, we have developed custom programs in Visual Basic, VBA, and C/C++. Programs have been developed in the UNIX environment with 4GLs, C, and UNIX shell scripts. GUI environments have included development for UNIX, AIX, OS/2, Windows, and VMS.