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Database Software Buying Guide
If you own your own business or just really, really love to keep organized, you may want to consider purchasing database software
Choosing Database Software
Before committing to a purchase, ask yourself these questions:
- Who will be using the database, and how will the database be used?
- Will data be modified often? By whom?
- Is IT support necessary?
- What hardware is available to you? If you need to purchase additional equipment, what is your budget?
- Who will maintain the data?
- Will data be offered over the internet? If so, what level of access will be supported?
Desktop Databases
Desktop databases are relatively user-friendly and economical, and are ideal for single-user or non-interactive web applications (though you should be able to find applications that afford you some basic web functionality). In general, these are useful if you are looking for something to run on your personal computer: you should be able to support it yourself, and the software will not take up too much room.
| Desktop Database Options | ||||
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Microsoft Access ships with Microsoft Office Professional |
Another Microsoft product. FoxPro is rather full-featured; it has a dynamic programming language so you won't need a supplementary programming environment. Middleware and web applications can be created, and SQL and data manipulation are supported, so this is a great option for more advanced users. |
Lotus Approach is available as part of the Lotus SmartSuite |
Paradox Paradox is published by Corel Corporation as part of the WordPerfect Office |
Originally released for Apple in the 1980s, FileMaker is now available for both Mac and Windows operating systems. What sets it apart is the fact that it is scalable: it can be used for for desktop, server, and web-delivery configurations, so this could be a good solution for growing businesses. |
Server Databases
Server databases are appropriate for larger organisations can afford the significantly higher price and the hardware resources necessary to implement them. These powerful systems allow many users to access and update simultaneously, and offer techie types the luxury of developing and programming as they see fit.
| Server Database Options | ||
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Related Guides
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External Links
- Wikipedia.org: Information on databases and their applications.
- About.com: An article on database software options.
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