Upgrading or replacing Access 97. Suggestions requested.

[e_james]

I have written a couple of database applications using Access 97 and a few more using Paradox 7. I have a current question arising from the upgrading of the hardware running one of the Access applications. My client's requirements include at least 2 terminals working on a common database via a simple network. Since a new PC will likely come with Windows 7, should we try to stick with Office 97 or upgrade to Office 2010? I could rewrite the whole thing in Paradox but that would create the situation that I might be the only available maintainer and it would take a few weeks work. I rather like the idea of doing something with Python and MySQL but that presents 2 problems. First, both Python and MySQL are unfamiliar territory and second, in a year or so I could be pondering the same sort of version upgrade question.

Any comments or suggestions please. Maximum future proofing with minimum effort is the target.

[ty2010]

I've never come across forward version troubles with MySQL, it's usually added security,controls and features. So far as back end and presentation go you should be able to go with just about anything you want.