The Types of Databases for FileMaker
Librarians, teachers, managers, information technology professionals and small-business owners use FileMaker. Unlike database software like SQL that requires programming skills to use, FileMaker includes templates (ready-to-use applications) for many types of databases and an interface that makes developing a database no more difficult than creating a simple spreadsheet. Professionally designed database templates, called Starter Solutions, are available to help small- to medium-size companies, schools and nonprofits -- pretty much everyone -- organize data.
Other People Are Reading
-
Flat-File vs. Relational Database
-
A spreadsheet is a flat-file database. FileMaker supports both flat-file and relational databases. A Microsoft Excel spreadsheet containing an inventory of office equipment is an example of a flat-file database -- basically just a simple list of items. A relational database is two or more tables that share content. Another table listing suppliers that sold the office equipment could be associated with the inventory to create a relational database, for example. Once the relationship between inventory item and supplier is made, changes made to one table are updated in the other.
People-Based Databases
-
Data about members of a group are one type of people-based database. Databases of people-based information, such as members of the local library, business customers, employees and personal contacts, are popular and easy to do with FileMaker. With its graphical interface, it is easy to add photos of people to your database.
-
Project-Based Databases
-
Use a project database to make tracking a large project easier. FileMaker has database templates for creating project management databases that help you keep track of deadlines, schedule jobs and resources, and send invoices. FileMaker has a library of tools for creating reports and sharing data to further help you manage your projects.
Asset-Based Databases
-
Inventory databases can contain a few items or a store's worth. Create an inventory of your DVD collection or a warehouse of inventory to sell online. FileMaker imports and exports common inventory file types so you can share inventory with other inventory systems. The same concepts apply to a library of documents, books and research notes.
Image-Based Databases
-
Archive scanned artwork or historical documents in a FileMaker image database. FileMaker accepts electronic image files and scanned artwork and historical documents as part of its records, which makes it a favorite application among librarians and archivists. Parents and photography buffs also appreciate the ease with which FileMaker allows them to organize images.
Web-Based Database
-
FileMaker databases can be viewed on mobile devices. FileMaker software makes it easy to launch password-protected databases on a Web page. Remote users can access data and add their daily sales reports, for example. You can even view and use Web-based databases on a mobile device with applications available from FileMaker.
Sharing Database Files
-
With FileMaker Server Advanced, you can share FileMaker databases with applications using Open Database Connectivity (ODBC) and Java Database Connectivity (JDBC) files. ODBC and JDBC are open file standards that use SQL statements to exchange data. This makes it possible to import and export data to and from an Oracle database, for example. Files must be on the same computer or network.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images Comstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images Jupiterimages/Creatas/Getty Images Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
