For the advantages of the spreadsheet in contrast to databases, it can handle much more complex and 'number crunching' calculations. With databases, you can only use basic maths functions.
-A database can produce record-by-record output (e.g. invoices, certificates) which spreadsheets are hopeless at
-A database can be used by numerous people over a network
-However, you need some foundation or understanding in order to use the functions of a database and make queries fpr example
Databases are capable of complex operations. It's just that you've only been exposed to Access.
One of the key benefits of databases over spreadsheets is the 'barrier to entry' is lower for spreadsheets - it's easier for the novice to create a spreadsheet to support a decision (remember, spreadsheets are a form of decision support system) rather than design and a database. However, as a user, the ease of use depends on how well the system was developed. A well-designed database will be accessible and easy to use for the novice as opposed to a poorly designed spreadsheet.