by Filemaker Inc.
Platform:
Windows NT / 98 / 2000 / Me / 95
(12)1 used & new from $199.00
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FileMaker Pro 6.0 makes data management for individuals and small groups engaging and almost fun. Installation and setup are both surprisingly quick and easy, and the templates and wizards will have most users frolicking with their new or imported databases in just a couple of hours. The interface and design tools are comfortable for Windows users of all levels of experience. The software is not designed for the lowest common denominator, though--advanced users will find FileMaker Pro's scripting language for queries and other tasks handy, if not all-powerful.
Data entry couldn't be easier. For some formats, it's as simple as dragging and dropping folder contents, so multimedia management, for example, becomes almost trivial. FileMaker Pro's data manipulation tools are more powerful than before, which means administrators would do well to limit users or train them carefully. Searches, the meat of the package, are simple enough for beginners but offer enough complexity to keep power users happy. One new timesaving search feature is the extend/constrain function: if a search returns too few or too many results, it takes just one step to expand or contract search parameters.
Web-style integration in FileMaker Pro 6.0 has taken a huge step forward from version 5.5; the look and feel of the desktop is almost seamlessly translated to intranet application. However, those with more than 10 potential FileMaker users should pick up the unlimited-use version of the software. FileMaker can import and export XML, so data can be manipulated and then easily shared with non-users via a Web browser.
While there might be more powerful data management packages available, for a wide range of uses and users, FileMaker Pro 6.0 is tough to beat. --Rob Lightner
FileMaker Pro 6 is the leading workgroup database software for quickly creating and sharing solutions adapted to your business needs. Powerful features, broad platform support, and an easy-to-use interface make FileMaker Pro 6 indispensable for anyone who needs to track and manage people, projects, images, and information. Use built-in instant-productivity templates to quickly design and deploy customized solutions. Easily communicate by sharing content with others over a network or intranet to collaborate on multiple projects for greater workgroup productivity. Moreover, with the ability to exchange data with a virtually limitless number of other applications, FileMaker Pro 6 is ideal for gathering, managing and sharing all types of information. Part Number 321200U.