T2.5

Databases are designed to contain important information that can be used for a variety of purposes. Databases and Database Management System come in a staggering variety, from flat file, to single and multiple users. Similarly, databases and DBMS can vary greatly in cost. Some databases are designed specifically for the personal user, while others are desired for businesses and organizations. For example, Bento 3 software for Iphones and Ipads features many types of file storage and organization (including media such as photos, as well as documents and spreadsheets), calender organization features, and contacts and address storage (1). Additionally, Bento 3 can be used to track daily diet and exercise progress, store recipes and shopping lists, plan special events, catalog inventory, and even keep track of project progress and deadlines (1).

Yet another useful personal database is Treepad, a low cost database system for personal organizational use (2). Treepad is much more basic than Bento 3, and is designed for windows systems as opposed to Mac (2). In addition, according to the Treepad website, this database software allows the user to, “enjoy better access, organization and control over all your data, notes, bills, projects, clients, addresses, letters, speeches, research, collections, classroom notes, Web pages, links, bibliographic listings, and whatever else your creativity enables you to entrust TreePad with, for good organization, easy access, and safe storage.” (2) In addition, tree pad can be installed on a flash drive and used as a method to organize stored files on the external drive itself. (2)

Finally, the Mac Filemaker Pro software is a database specifically designed for small businesses (3). The Filemaker software allows employees to easily share files, publish files to the web, create to-do lists, create reports and inventories, and keep track of invoices, events, and contacts (3). A program such as this could be used to support both mobile operations (it can be used with iphones) and office work (3). The Filemaker Pro software allows users to organize all important information and files in one place, and share as they please with co-workers (3).



1.

http://www.filemaker.com/products/bento/
2.

http://www.treepad.com/
3.

http://www.filemaker.com/products/filemaker-pro/?homepage=fmp_overview