You won't need a computer science degree to use FileMaker Pro 5.5. At AU$482.90 (AU$284.90 for an upgrade), its antigeek appeal stems from its template- and wizard-driven design, comprehensive documentation, and context-sensitive help across Mac and PC platforms. But the database product also provides the extended Open Database Connectivity, SQL, and scripting power tools needed for scalable database projects. We like the integrated design, search-and-browse environment, and easy desktop or Web sharing.
Upgraders and newbies alike will find reasons to install FileMaker Pro 5.5 on their systems. An easy-to-use database with both PC and Mac versions and shared file formats, FileMaker is great for cross-platform shops, especially those that cater to users with a variety of programming proficiency levels.
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Newbies will appreciate how FileMaker's built-in templates, wizards, and scripts let you create data entry screens, search and sort data, and print out reports without knowing how to program. And you don't need to write code to get good results. To build a database, you can choose from 16 templates that cover business basics such as inventory, time billing, and expense reports, as well as ID badges, fax cover sheets, and business cards. We like FileMaker's design environment in which you create both forms and reports--you don't have to learn separate tools, making it ideal for the occasional ad-hoc database. The program's scripting language provides more than 100 commands, with dozens of options for automating and Customising your applications through the Script Definition wizard.
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