Group database improves sharing
FileMaker has released version 8 of its FileMaker Pro workgroup database, adding features that make it easier to create databases and to share data with other users or organisations that do not have FileMaker.
FileMaker Pro 8, shipping now, adds the ability to build a database by importing information directly from an Excel document. It can also export to an Excel file, and create reports as Acrobat PDF documents. The software runs on Macs with OS X and PCs with Windows 2000 or XP.
While version 7 of FileMaker introduced a more powerful relational file format, version 8 is designed to help users get the most out of its capabilities, said FileMaker’s regional manager for Northern Europe, Tony Speakman.
“For FileMaker users, it’s about creating a solution to help run their business,” Speakman said.
Improvements include the capability to email the content of any field directly from FileMaker, and an Email Merge function makes it easier to send messages to contacts stored in a table. An auto-complete tool can fill in fields from drop-down lists or previous entries.
A Relationships Graph tool that allows users to visually create and modify the relationship between tables has also been improved.
Also shipping is FileMaker Pro 8 Advanced, which replaces the developer version of earlier FileMaker releases. “We changed the name because it’s not just for developers, but for anyone building advanced solutions,” said Speakman. The Advanced version adds a script debugger, and a kiosk mode to stop users from changing the design or structure of a working database.
Server and mobile versions of the product are set to ship in the autumn, including FileMaker Server 8 Advanced for publishing databases to the web. FileMaker Mobile 8 enables staff to run FileMaker-based applications on Palm OS 5 or Pocket PC 2003 devices.
FileMaker Pro 8 is priced at £219 + VAT, while FileMaker Pro 8 Advanced costs £379 + VAT. Licensed users of FileMaker Developer 6 and 7 can upgrade to FileMaker Pro 8 Advanced for £199 + VAT.