Database Recs. - Virtual Assistant Forums

#1 (**permalink**) 10-01-2009

I need to create a somewhat simple database that needs to be able to have search features and be exported into a spreadsheet or pdf. I am debating between online and software specific to my computer.

Has anybody used http://www.grubba.net/? They are free and pretty simple to use but I am a bit scared to store my data online and than the site potentially go down (the site is still in beta.)

I am open to any suggestions you may have. TIA!

#2 (**permalink**) 10-01-2009

You can create a data base in Access or Excel. Both have search features. This way it is on your computer and not on the internet.

Andrea

#3 (**permalink**) 10-01-2009

I also recommend using Excel. It is a common program, has excellent search features. You can print reports to pdf and they can be search-able too.

#4 (**permalink**) 10-01-2009

Have you ever used Pivot Tables in excel? They are awesome! You can do some really complex reports with them that I couldn't begin to put together, but they are great for a simple database that you can manipulate in different ways. And again, each report could be saved as a pdf.

Kathy

#5 (**permalink**) 10-01-2009

I'm a big fan of Access, but it is fairly complicated to use at first. If you are looking at a small database, I think Excel would probably work well for you.

#6 (**permalink**) 10-01-2009

I'd recommend you use excel too, most clients would have this rather than Access which I also like. If your data gets too large,and you'll know because it gets more difficult to search then you can move to something more robust. But for 1-2000 rows, you should be fine.

#7 (**permalink**) 10-11-2009

Thank you all for your responses. I was able to get a killer deal on FileMaker Pro 10 and it is perfect for what I need.

#8 (**permalink**) 12-02-2009

I would also recommend using Excel and the Pivot Tables. If you are using Excel 2007 they are a bit easier to configure than with earlier versions of Excel. But either way, they are incredibly useful. You may need to look online to view a tutorial.

#9 (**permalink**) 05-01-2010

Hello Hawaii VA - how do you like using Filemaker Pro 10? I'm looking at that vs. ACT for contact management. I've read a lot of great review for Filemaker Pro.

Thanks,
Bonnie Schafer
West Virginia

#10 (**permalink**) 05-04-2010

Aloha Bonnie,

I love Filemaker Pro 10 - it has met my needs and I also recommend it.

Warmly, Kim