Access alternatives discussion

[swicks2806]

Hi all,

I've recently joined my company and have been handed an incomplete project that another colleague was working on.

I have found out that the all inclusive, all-singing all-dancing, database that they were having built was being built for Access and the whole company bar this colleague use Macs - not ideal because as I'm sure you all know, you cannot run Access on Macs.

Therefore I am exploring my options, which currently seem to be the following. Any advice on what to choose would be really appreciated!

1. Get the database rebuilt to use an equivalent software package. I am looking at FileMaker - is this the lead product? What functionalities may I lose?

2. Run Access through having a Windows client on our Macs. This to me ring alarm bells?

3. Buy Windows laptops with the sole purpose of running this system. Again, alarm bells?

4. Are any rumours of Access coming to Mac actually grounded in anything either Apple or Microsoft have said?

5. Any alternatives you can suggest?

Thanks in advance,

Sam

 

[sigamy]

Seems crazy to install Windows or purchase Windows machines for one small Access application. Maybe have one Windows machine and have users connect to it via Remote Desktop?

Yes, FileMaker is the leading "desktop" or client/server database for the Mac. I'm not a FileMaker user but over the years I've heard that it was a bit "strange" and didn't really conform to true relational DB concepts. I believe this has been fixed with recent versions.

Also take a look at TapForms:
http://www.tapforms.com/

It looks like a simple list maker, but it really is a pretty full featured database. It has forms creator, linked fields, picklist fields and iOS and Mac apps. But, probably can't handle a large relational DB with lots of joins.

 

[nefan65]

Depends on what the database is being used for, and what experience you have. If you have the technical chops to do it, I'd go a different route; LAMP. Setup a LAMP box, for free, and make the database on that. Then you just need a browser.

 

[swicks2806]

Hi both, thanks for your feedback. I agree on Windows, this database is suppose to streamline processes not add extra steps and complications!

We have been using a developer in the Far East so the tech know-how to make a version on File Maker. Anyone else who has any knowledge on what restrictions it may have would be appreciated.

LAMP sounds interesting and as many of us are based around the globe that could be a good lead - I'll look into it.