You probably have information scattered about, in spreadsheets, in documents, or on paper. A database helps you bring all this information together so you (and your team) can become more organized and productive.

For some, databases may seem intimidating. But easy-to-use, inexpensive database software does exist! Databases can be as simple as the other programs you use on your computer every day such as word processors and spreadsheets.
Woman with laptop on floor

Think of a database as a big stack of cards with several bits of information on each card. All sorts of information can be put on those cards — text, numbers, dates, images, and Web links. The cards are then organized into lists (or "tables" in database terms). You can store lists of customers, projects you are working on, and items or images you want to org anise.

Advantages of a database

Why would you want to put information into a database instead of, say, a spreadsheet or a document? Databases are far better at finding information. You can ask a database a question such as "how many people have agreed to come to my event" or "which customer purchased which product" and get an immediate answer.
FileMaker Pro Screenshot

Databases organise your information in lists (like spreadsheets) but, unlike spreadsheets, you can view your information as forms. A form can look like a paper form or can be designed as an online form. Forms provide a great way to get at the details. View all your projects in a list, and with a click see the details on a particular project in a form view. Forms also help with data entry.

Databases ensure your information is accurate. Attractive pop-up lists, auto-complete fields, and other features make data entry fast and consistent.

You are, no doubt, familiar with applications that have database-like functions, such as address book, calendar, photo management programs, and so on. While extremely useful, these programs perform a limited number of functions and hold a limited amount of information. In contrast, databases can hold whatever information you need and you can view your data any way you like.

Use a database to connect your information together. You might have a list of customers, and a list of items you have sold. By connecting (or "relating") these lists you will see all the items a particular customer purchased. Then link database records with files, photos, movies, and even Web pages to organise everything in one place. Try doing that with a spreadsheet!

Databases do more than hold data. They help you solve problems, answer questions, and make decisions. You can create formulas and calculations to help you analyse information, then whip together quick reports to help you share your insights.

Flexible printing is another strength of databases. Mailing labels, reports, invoices, badges for events and paper entry forms all are made easier with databases.

Sharing Information

Databases allow you easily and quickly to share information. A simple way of sharing is to export data to PDF files or spreadsheets and then email the files to team members, business partners or friends.

Full-featured databases (such as FileMaker Pro) enable multiple people to open and use the same database at the same time. Security features allow you to limit access to information to only those who need to know.
Data flow diagram.

Today's databases work with the Web. Gather data from websites, create Web databases, and give coworkers or customers access to your information wherever they are in the world, as long as they can access a browser. Simple tools ensure that putting your database on the Web is quick, painless and secure.

What next?

View the package options for development discounts.

Working with you at your office or home/studio, we will be on hand to guide you to the key features of the software making sure you understand the principals of the software.  With this initial foundation you can go on to to develop your knowledge of the software making sure that it's working for you and not it telling you how to work.

So call today or look at the pricing plans.

We can also provide hardware and software from leading manufacturers at trade prices.

Prices subject to a £10+vat admin fee on all orders and delivery at cost.