478926 – Access: Modernize Access Forms and Reports to work well on Large Format Monitors

Product:

Forms, Microsoft 365 Apps

Platform:

Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

In development

Change type:

Links:

Details:

Remove the 22-inch size limit and modernize Access forms and reports work well on large format monitors and provide responsive behavior for different form factors.

Change Category:
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Scope:
XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-05-02

updated:
2025-10-16

Public Preview Start Date

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Docu to Check

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

MS workload name

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

summary for non-techies**

XXXXXXX ... free basic plan only

Direct effects for Operations**

User Interface Issues
If Access forms and reports are not properly optimized for large format monitors, users may experience misaligned elements, making it difficult to navigate and use the application effectively.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2021/06/24/whats-new-in-access-june-2021/, https://www.techrepublic.com/article/5-tips-for-designing-access-forms-that-are-user-friendly/

Performance Degradation
Without proper preparation, modernizing Access forms for large monitors may lead to performance issues, such as slow loading times or crashes, especially on older hardware.
   - roles: Database Administrators, End Users
   - references: https://www.databasejournal.com/features/microsoft-access/optimizing-access-database-performance/, https://www.red-gate.com/simple-talk/sql/database-administration/10-tips-for-improving-access-database-performance/

Configutation Options**

XXXXXXX ... paid membership only

explanation for non-techies**

Imagine you have a favorite book that you've always read on a small paperback version. It's compact and easy to carry around, but when you try to read it on a large table, it feels a bit out of place. Now, think about getting a new edition of that book, but this time it's a larger, more flexible version that adjusts to the size of the table you're reading it on. This is similar to what's happening with Microsoft Access forms and reports.

Traditionally, Access forms and reports were designed with a 22-inch size limit in mind, much like that small paperback book. They were great for smaller screens but didn't quite take advantage of the larger monitors that many people use today. With the modernization efforts, Access is now being updated to work seamlessly on larger format monitors. This means that just like the new edition of your book, Access forms and reports will adjust and look great no matter the size of the screen you're using.

This change is particularly useful in today's world where work environments vary greatly. Some people work on desktop computers with large monitors, while others might use laptops or even tablets. The updated Access forms and reports will provide a responsive behavior, meaning they will automatically adjust to fit different screen sizes and orientations. It's like having a book that can change its layout to make reading comfortable whether you're at a small café table or a large office desk.

For lawyers, managers, or HR staff, this means that the tools you use in Access will be more versatile and easier to work with, regardless of the device you're using. You'll be able to view and interact with data more efficiently, without being constrained by screen size limitations. This modernization is designed to enhance productivity and make your workflow smoother, much like how a well-designed book enhances the reading experience.