By using free programs (as in no cost), one can achieve results similar to those with Microsoft Access.
We can offer training courses in Microsoft Access alternatives such as:
LibreOffice Base
Most actively maintained and widely used free alternative. Strong support for tables, forms, queries, and reports. Default HSQLDB engine with excellent connections to PostgreSQL, MariaDB/MySQL and others. High SQL compatibility. No native VBA; uses LibreOffice Basic (good VBA import compatibility for many macros) plus Python scripting for automation.
Apache OpenOffice Base
Very similar interface and features to LibreOffice Base. Solid for forms and reports with good SQL support. Automation via OpenOffice Basic (limited VBA compatibility). Development is slower than LibreOffice.
Kexi
Kexi is part of Calligra/KDE. Desktop database tool with forms, queries and reports. Strong native SQLite support and connections to MySQL/PostgreSQL. Suitable for relational work. Scripting via JavaScript, Python and others (no VBA). Still functional, especially in Linux environments.
LibreOffice Base combined with external databases
Recommended for European professionals needing better multi-user support, scalability and standards compliance. Full SQL compatibility with strong automation/scripting options. No VBA.
(e.g. PostgreSQL or MariaDB)
Related Access courses
We can also highlight the important differences between Access and the other application softwares, including compatibility regarding file formats, SQL capabilities, form design, reporting features and automation options.
Many European professionals and public organisations continue to use Microsoft Access for existing small-scale applications. At the same time, there is a growing move towards LibreOffice Base for new or replacement projects, especially where cost savings and digital sovereignty are priorities. For applications with multiple users or larger data volumes, a common approach is to use LibreOffice Base (or similar tools) as a front-end connected to PostgreSQL or MariaDB. This provides better scalability while remaining fully within open-source and EU-compliant solutions.
AI code generation tools and assistants are increasingly used alongside these platforms. They help professionals generate and adapt LibreOffice Basic or Python scripts, create SQL queries, and design forms more quickly. Local or privacy-focused AI models are popular in Europe for data-sensitive work. For more advanced needs, some users combine LibreOffice with no-code AI-enhanced tools such as Baserow, which allow natural language database creation and automation. This reduces development time but does not fully replace the need for understanding core database concepts.
