I LOVE FileMaker
July 07, 2017
I LOVE FileMaker
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Overall Satisfaction with FileMaker Pro
We started using FileMaker Pro to automate the process of submitting permits and tracking inspections. Since then, we have implemented databases to track our sales and installations from start to finish. We even generate proposals on our iPads right in the customers homes, have them sign and submit the contracts to the office for processing before the sales rep even leaves the customer's home.
- It is so logical and easy to use. You do not need to be a programmer to create data bases.
- The scripting allows you to create reports and graphs that will wow your bosses.
- We use the Server version which allows us to share data. The security features allow you to determine who can access what down to the record and even field levels.
- I would have said that it would be nice if each open window worked independently with its own menu set, but they already added that function in the most recent update.
- We have increased our productivity. Just looking at the Permit process; it would take at least 1-2 hours to manually complete the entire permit package for one job. With FileMaker, we can do 4 - 6 permits in the same time frame. We have also decreased the size of our office staff which has cut our overhead significantly.
- One of our databases is a task list. We use this to communicate information about jobs. When a customer calls, with 2 mouse clicks anyone who answers the phone has all of the information that they need to effectively assist our customer.
- If we want to make changes to other programs that we use, we usually end up pay additional customization fees. When we want to change something in FileMaker, we make the changes ourselves.
FileMaker was so much easier to use and much more flexible. I tried creating a database in access and just got frustrated. In the early 1990's my boss loaded FileMaker 2.0 on my computer & told me to see what I could do with it. With no formal programming training, I created a simple employee database with a few basic reports in a matter or hours. If I can do that, anyone can work with FileMaker. And each version just gets better!!