RELATIONAL DATABASES have a reputation for being impossible for average users to set up and master, requiring SWAT teams of trained experts for installation and customization. That's why Claris' FileMaker Pro database program is so popular with its users -- it's easy to program and maintain. But FileMaker has lacked the powerful lookup capabilities of relational database programs such as ACI US' 4D First. No more.
After making vague announcements early this year, Claris is finally taking the wraps off its relational version of FileMaker Pro. Expected to ship in late November with a street price of about $200, FileMaker Pro 3.0 offers one-to-many and many-to-one relationships among records. For instance, a project database you've created can relate to a separate database of individual tasks and all of its related data as well. But FileMaker Pro 3.0 also retains the lookups of previous versions, so you have access to existing data.
The benefits of the relational FileMaker are, according to Claris, faster data queries, smaller file sizes, and reduced data redundancy. Active assistance will step users through the creation of relational databases.
The new version will also sport a button bar for managing records, and a text ruler will appear in the Browse mode. For all you mailing-list junkies, FileMaker Pro 3.0 will support mail-merge. 408-987-7000.
