Task 1.1

Using the Data Sources tool built into Windows 7 under Administrative tools I was able to successfully establish a connection to the Groceries database. I did not encounter any problems or issues during this phase.

With the central connection established, I was able to gain direct (read only) access to the records within the tables through both Excel and Access. 

I attempted to use an alternative Google-found program called "Database Explorer" to establish the same ODBC connection but the program appears to be very buggy and counter-intuitive.

I don't have a great deal of knowledge in relation to MySQL but I know it's used in conjunction with PHP for a great many low-budget websites. I've done my fair share of work in both Access and Excel, the majority of which was performed in VCE.