FileMaker Pro 9: The Missing Manual
O'Reilly Media, Inc.
Price: $34.99 (electronic edition available)
Pros: Simple, funny writing style; in-depth program coverage; on-line downloadable examples; knowledgeable writers.
Cons: A few incorrect indexing references; limited capability to document program updates.
by Troy McLain, Capt, USAF
FileMaker Pro 9 is one of the most intuitive and user-friendly database programs available. But, as with all database programs, it is capable of so much that it is practically impossible for the typical user to deduce all of its functionality simply by searching the program’s multiple menus.
Enter FileMaker Pro 9: The Missing Manual – another edition of the Missing Manual series designed to enlighten non-technical persons on highly technical subjects.
The main selling point of the series is that it is very simple to read. O'Reilly's writers are also extremely knowledgeable in the subject area. Geoff Coffey, has been a FileMaker Pro trainer and consultant for over 10 years. Susan Prosser is also a FileMaker consultant, as well as a database program creator. Along with the Missing Manual creative team, these authors impart their wealth of knowledge in a way that anyone could understand. And since they aren’t part of FileMaker, Inc., they aren’t afraid to point out any of the software’s problems.
When comparing FileMaker Pro 9: The Missing Manual to the user’s guide supplied in the software’s box, several differences are notable. The biggest is size: the Missing Manual is wider, taller, and much thicker. So if you just need a quick introduction to the program, this book might not be what you need. Learning a program as extensive as FileMaker Pro takes time, and delving through the Missing Manual is going to take a lot of it. But if you want to get the most out of FileMaker Pro, then the user’s guide just isn’t enough. The Missing Manual also notably uses less complicated language, has more example images, and presents a intuitive flow of information than the user’s guide.
One of the biggest benefits of FileMaker Pro 9: The Missing Manual is the online support. Armed with just the software and user’s guide, you have to learn from scratch. The Missing Manual, on the other hand, offers several pre-built databases that it guides you through. This not only gives you an example to work with while learning, but also shows you various ways that your final databases could be built and organized.
The indexing is also much more detailed in the Missing Manual. So if you ever forget how to work a specific function of the program, the answer is a quick look-up away, though there are several instances in which the index reference the wrong section of the book (but the right page number). This is probably due to a late chapter reorganization before publishing.
While the current Missing Manual is well supported with examples, it does not, as yet, support any new software updates being offered by FileMaker, Inc.. In other words, the book is written for the FileMaker Pro 9 program right out of the box. If the company puts out any updates that alter the software, then you need to do your own research to figure out the changes. Also, when FileMaker Pro 10 becomes available, there is no smaller Missing Manual explaining just those changes – you'll need to pick up a new edition. So if you’re not new to the FileMaker Pro software, these manuals might be more than you need.
I found FileMaker Pro 9: The Missing Manual to be perfect for someone just starting to work with database programs. It’s step-by-step process will have you building your first personal or professional database in no time!