FileMaker Pro 5.5 :: Education by Design Store

Editorial Review
Whether you're transitioning from spreadsheets to more versatile databases or looking for a powerful database program even non-geeks will love, it's hard to beat FileMaker Pro 5.5. Designed with plenty of input from users, third-party developers, and OS mavens, it is one of the simplest, most flexible data management systems available.

Cross-platform interoperability extends from Mac OS X to Windows 2000, Red Hat Linux, handhelds, and beyond. With a broad range of ready-built business templates and strong import features (like drag and drop from Microsoft Excel), the typical user will be up and running on the first day, sharing data over intranets, LANs, or the Web. SQL queries are a snap, as are ODBC exchange and instant publishing--all new features that were built in after listening to input from FileMaker Pro users. The graphics are slick and easy to customize, and users won't have many surprises when they publish their work; in this case, what you see really is what you get.

Despite its relative simplicity and promises of ease of use, newcomers to FileMaker Pro should expect to spend more than a few hours exploring and familiarizing themselves with the features. Those with no database experience will have a tougher time, but persistence pays off and the rewards are well worth the effort (the online help and customer service support should make this process a little sweeter). Additional incentives include record-level security, added scripting steps, and easy send-mail options.

Nobody ever said managing a business was simple, but FileMaker Pro 5.5 will take a load off your mind. --Rob Lightner
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Customer Reviews

Filemaker Pro 5.5 Windows

2002-04-08
Filemaker Pro is a flexible and useful program for several reasons. Most Database Programs over the years have diminished in their usefulness. I used to use ACT4.0 and ACT2000 but its lack of enhancements began to make it obsolete or less useful for me. I got the recommendation of a friend who is a MACINTOSH owner and he is really high on Filemaker for the MAC. So I purchased Filemaker Pro for my Windows 98 PC. I found right off that it contained a large number of useful business templates from which to select. I used the template I needed which ultimately replaced my ACT database--I am currently importing a series of contact lists from my Filemaker system without problems. Its a fine product and works on both the MAC (including OS version X) and all versions of the Microsoft Windows Operating Systems such a Win98, ME, 2000, XP. Its easy to share data between MAC's and PC's.

Best and most versatile database package for small business

2001-11-08
This program allows me to effortlessly create simple and complex databases, and expand their functionality in numerous ways (if only I had the time to do the latter!). Extremely versatile, easy to use, a hit with all my clients. When I get people to respond with "this is so exciting" about a database package, I know that something's up. Filemaker had done a great job improving an already stellar package. Combined with the thousands of plug-ins available, make this the best investment I have made for my consulting practice.

FileMaker Pro - a must

2001-10-22
I recommend FileMaker Pro to anyone. It is easy to use. One doesn't have to be a professional, in order to use it. It takes a little while at the beginning in finding out how it all works, but ones you looked at few examples, it is easy at the end and you'll find that you cannot live without it. There are tons of help instructions on the web, to help you if you get stuck.

This program is ideal for keeping track of everything, if you work in a logistic area to keep track of your out- and in goings, or addresses, event planning, or just anything that you can think off, of keeping track and organising your work, this program can do it.

I myself work in the Logistic side and it is helping me a great deal in keeping it all organized.

Sweet program. TONS of killer features... 2001-10-18
This is a sweet program, and it has TONS of features that make it absolutely easy to oragnize information and build systems to run a business.

Unfortunately, it's not an enterprise application in some ways, and it lacks features like the ability to encrypt date internally, so despite it's easy web publishing capabilities, it's not the program to run your fortune 500 off of.

The interface to the program is sweet, and you can do just about EVERYTHING with filemaker, including client server applications, and distributed data management.

I would reccomend this program to my family, but I can't give it 4 stars because it tries to be all things to all people, and isn't.

Absolutely the best database program. Ever. 2001-08-01
I am used to using Excel and Access to satisfy my database needs. Most of the time I simply need to create a sheet to print labels on. I'm always amazed by the excruciating amount of time Excel and Access require to do this task.

Filemaker is so much easier. It's intuitive, straightforward, and easy to manipulate. I was able to create my own personal database template within thirty minutes of being introduced to the program. It's that straightforward. It's sort and search utilities are clean and easy to use, as is it's label program. A friend recommended this program to me as the ultimate consumer database tool, and I agree.

The best ever!

What you Want is What you Get 2001-06-24
Whether you're transitioning from spreadsheets to more versatile databases or looking for a powerful database program even non-geeks will love, it's hard to beat FileMaker Pro 5.5. Designed with plenty of input from users, third-party developers, and OS mavens, it is one of the simplest, most flexible data management systems available.

Nobody ever said managing a business was simple, but FileMaker Pro 5.5 will take a load off your mind. --Rob Lightner