2004-03-06

Need a database? Try FileMaker Pro

I've just recently finished setting up a FileMaker Pro database which my sister and her husband will be using for their small home business. If you are in need of a database I'd definitely suggest going with FileMaker Pro which is currently at version 6. According to Think Secret FileMaker is set to release Version 7 in March.

Until recently I worked for Memphis Literacy Council which facilitates the training of hundreds of volunteer tutors and pairs them with adults who are learning how to read. Two years ago we were planning to move from a 10 year old database. That database was hard coded and the staff could not change it. We depended on the original developer who was often very busy and unable to make needed changes in a timely manner. We had an "experienced" Access developer come in to design our new database. After 6 months of talking with staff about our needs he suffered a severe back injury and had to quit. As the most technology proficient staff person I stepped in and took a look at what he had done. What I discovered was a rudimentary database which led me to question his expertise.

I began exploring FileMaker Pro which I soon discovered was an amazingly easy to use and powerful database application. When I started the project I'd had minimal experience using FMP for simple home databases to track a large library and our many garden plants. Within three months I had created a relational system of more than eight databases that worked together. This LiteracyDBase is now used by the Literacy Council to track hundreds of people, courses, assignments and thousands of timeslips that track accumulated hours. FMP can be networked via tcp/ip with hundreds or thousands of client computers.

FMP is its easily integrated with Microsoft Office and many other applications. Importing and exporting data in many formats for use in spreadsheets, websites, or other documents is a snap. The ease of use cannot be over stated. Using scripts and the built in drawing tools a FMP developer can easily make a clean, graphically attractive interface that even a novice such as my sister is capable of learning quickly.

If you need a database check out FileMaker Pro. FileMaker offers five different versions so be sure you check them all to ensure you get what you need. All versions are available for both Mac and Windows.