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.
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.
Databases have thousands of uses. Here are some of the most popular:
- Manage your contacts and customer lists
- Track projects and tasks
- Create home inventory with photos
- Coordinate group activities
- Create quick and easy reports
- Organize a charity auction
- Track employee information
- Print invoices, letters and mailing labels
- Connect data; students and classes
- Store digital assets and their descriptions
You don’t need to be a computer expert or invest a lot of time – anyone can quickly learn to use a database.
A great place to start is by watching the introductory video that comes
with most modern databases.
A good next step is to explore the templates that come with your database (FileMaker Pro calls them “Starter Solutions” and Bento calls them “Libraries”). Templates cover a wide range of needs, from organizing lists of people, to tracking projects, to storing documents and digital images. Then add or or delete any information from these templates so they work the way you want and store the information you need.
Or start with information you already have in spreadsheets, documents or digital folders. Databases are very good at taking information from these types of files and importing it. Try dragging a spreadsheet to the FileMaker Pro free trial and watch what happens (or export spreadsheet information and drag it onto a Bento library).
That’s it! Now you are ready to get started with databases.
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