FileMaker Pro is a single user database that allows
users to create or work on reports, documents, layouts, scripting and
forms, as well as modify them [1]. FileMaker uses a "graphical user
interface" (GUI) which allows users to use images to click and drag to
create files versus text [2]. Bento, is a simplified version of
FileMaker Pro available to be used as a personal database, for
reminders, tasks, addresses, and other personal files [3].
The database, file creating application was also revamped recently to work with iPads and iPhones. Users can use their iPad or iPhone for any of the FileMaker tasks including checking, modifying, and creating data, reports, scripts, charts, using Excel, and other work functions, in addition to actually creating "iOS business applications" for their business. These applications can then be deployed, modified and managed by the user when needed [3].
FileMaker offers scripting, which allows users to figure out equations and calcuations, and also breaks down the steps for users. These scripts can then be used for records, reports, and to create new applications. Scripting, in addition to any of the business reports, charts, forms or layouts created by FileMaker have the capability of being turned into database output, where the program allows for organization and proper formatting so that information is displayed accurately and efficiently, with an easily readable layout [1].
The program gives users the option to work with structured query language (SQL). While SQL is now available through many other databases, FileMaker users have the option to install and connect to an SQL database and then use the data and information they have worked on in FileMaker, to manipulate, store, and create data using SQL. Through the SQL database, the users can then embed results into any language (i.e. Java). This combination of two programs working together to provide a user interface is an example of an object-oriented database management system (OODBMS) [1].
FileMaker is much more prevalent in everyday life than it would appear at first glance. Through a web application of the program, FileMaker actually tracks FedEx shipments, as well as Wikipedia posts. It is also licensed with many major businesses including Wal-Mart, ATT &T, and Nokia to create files. One U.S. hospital, Lee Medical, uses FileMaker Pro on iPads throughout the hospital and says that it has resulted in a lower infection rate, healthier patients, and an overall more efficient hospital. The hospital created an application called “The Lee Medical VAST Solution” for the iPad, which allows nurses to update information about vascular access devices, including catheters, which then must be monitored to prevent “central line associated bloodstream infections” (CLABSI). CLABSI is a common occurrence in all hospitals; nurses can easily make the mistake of inserting a catheter VAD incorrectly, and cause an infection in the bloodstream. Lee Medical reports that by using the FileMaker Pro iPad application, they have reduced their infection rate to 0.5%, reduced costs, increased standards and performance [4].
The database, file creating application was also revamped recently to work with iPads and iPhones. Users can use their iPad or iPhone for any of the FileMaker tasks including checking, modifying, and creating data, reports, scripts, charts, using Excel, and other work functions, in addition to actually creating "iOS business applications" for their business. These applications can then be deployed, modified and managed by the user when needed [3].
FileMaker offers scripting, which allows users to figure out equations and calcuations, and also breaks down the steps for users. These scripts can then be used for records, reports, and to create new applications. Scripting, in addition to any of the business reports, charts, forms or layouts created by FileMaker have the capability of being turned into database output, where the program allows for organization and proper formatting so that information is displayed accurately and efficiently, with an easily readable layout [1].
The program gives users the option to work with structured query language (SQL). While SQL is now available through many other databases, FileMaker users have the option to install and connect to an SQL database and then use the data and information they have worked on in FileMaker, to manipulate, store, and create data using SQL. Through the SQL database, the users can then embed results into any language (i.e. Java). This combination of two programs working together to provide a user interface is an example of an object-oriented database management system (OODBMS) [1].
FileMaker is much more prevalent in everyday life than it would appear at first glance. Through a web application of the program, FileMaker actually tracks FedEx shipments, as well as Wikipedia posts. It is also licensed with many major businesses including Wal-Mart, ATT &T, and Nokia to create files. One U.S. hospital, Lee Medical, uses FileMaker Pro on iPads throughout the hospital and says that it has resulted in a lower infection rate, healthier patients, and an overall more efficient hospital. The hospital created an application called “The Lee Medical VAST Solution” for the iPad, which allows nurses to update information about vascular access devices, including catheters, which then must be monitored to prevent “central line associated bloodstream infections” (CLABSI). CLABSI is a common occurrence in all hospitals; nurses can easily make the mistake of inserting a catheter VAD incorrectly, and cause an infection in the bloodstream. Lee Medical reports that by using the FileMaker Pro iPad application, they have reduced their infection rate to 0.5%, reduced costs, increased standards and performance [4].
Questions1) What Specific challenges does your database system implementation have?
FileMaker faces challenges in that it is not compatible with other databases. While it does allow users access to an SQL database, there are many that it does not work with. It is also a single-user program, meaning that it cannot be shared among multiple users at the same time, which can be a significant drawback.
2) In what ways does it provide a competitive advantage for the organization using it?
It allows reports, layouts, and other files to be made easily, and from a number of devices. Its ability to create business applications for the iPad and iPhone allows employees to help operate and keep track of their business on the go. Its use of GUI also makes the program easy to use.
3) What improvements would you suggest?
FileMaker Pro does a good job of how FileMaker programs can enhance people in their work setting, but does not explain much how their database application Bento, can be used for personal life -- I think this could be expanded on. In the future, if FileMaker wants to compete with some larger database applications, it may want to think about becoming available to multiple users. This would come with a new set of problems though, in creating, deploying and managing applications and forms.
Sources
No comments:
Post a Comment