Dear e-base users
we are a small environment NGO in Northern Australia considering using e-base to improve our membership building, list building and donation programs. We currently have a database of around 250 names set up on Filemaker pro (version 4.1 I think). Its OK but not ideal and obviously doesnt cover all the options ebase does
We are keen to investigate ebase but not sure if the changeover time will be worth it-a few questions.
Can we import data from our current database into ebase easily? ie will we have to become computer experts to be able to do this or will we have to load it in manually (which will turn people off).
It's pretty easy, but it depends somewhat on the condition your
data is in. For example, if your current data has...
first name and last name in the same field, or
phone numbers stored as (h) xxx-xxxx instead of just the
number,
or random notes in the address 2 field, or
payments in a text field like; 98, $25 dues; 99, 100 auction;
etc.
then it will be tough, because you have to spend some time, and
have some database or spreadsheet savvy to get it into shape to
import. If it's in good shape, it's pretty easy. You can download a
copy and try it, of course.
Realistically- how long will it take to skill people up into using e-base?
Sorry, this answer also starts, "It depends...". If
your people are accustomed to the idea of fields and records, and the
importance of being consistent in data entry, it takes only an hour to
get someone started in data entry. The administration people take
longer, a few weeks, to get the procedures for importing, source
codes, report printing, etc., sorted out. To master it? It's a pretty
powerful piece of gear, and is therefore complex. I have been using
ebase daily for more than a year, and I'm still finding odd corners
that I don't know about.
thanks for your help
Patrick O'leary
Committee Member
Environment Centre of the Northern Territory
Darwin Australia.
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tel: 206-954-7526 fax: 206-625-1338
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tel: 206-954-7526 fax: 206-625-1338
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