You already have a database in place, and it works for you. You would like to enhance the functionality of this database. I have a few approaches to this.

If I am familiar with the database development tools used to develop the database, I could possibly work with it and continue to revise and build upon it.

A better solution is for me to NOT TOUCH the database application you have in place. Rather, I can make use of the data of your existing application and use this data alone or combined with data from other sources to create reports, new data entry screens, new data sets, analyses, email reports of exceptions, etc.

For example, you may want to find a way to combine information from your Quickbooks financial database with your operating database, perhaps updating both sides in the process. Or, you may have a Goldmine database for marketing purposes and need an operations database for back office management. This provides a way to enhance your existing marketing database and vice-versa.

Or, as another example, perhaps I could create an overnight procedure that would take data from existing applications, update to a new satellite application which is then worked on through the day, then have those modifications update the source data the next night.

There are many ways I can improve upon the already existing database application, even without touching that application.