Overview

NorthStarDb is designed to be as easy to use as possible while allowing a good deal of flexibility. NorthStarDb runs on both Macintosh and Windows platforms. NorthStarDb can be used on a single machine or have many simultaneous users on a network.

NorthStarDb has grown out of “lessons learned” in database work with hundreds of nonprofits and related groups over the past ten years.

NorthStarDb is based on FileMaker 8.5 software. It can be used with full copies of FileMaker 8.5 software or with a runtime. The general installation falls into one or the following.

NorthStarDb Runtime

The runtime version provides even the smallest, most cash-strapped organization with a good and affordable starting point for fundraising and managing your constituent interactions. The runtime

NorthStarDb and FileMaker 8, 8.5 and 9

NorthStarDb, when used with FileMaker, NorthStarDb is "open source," allowing experienced FM developers get under the hood to make customizations when needed. Other than the file extension related differences noted later, there is no difference between the runtime files and the files intended for use with FileMaker.

Multi-user / sharing on a network

NorthStarDb, when used with FileMaker software, provides a local area network solution for up to 200 users. Sharing NorthStarDb a local area network requires Two or more copies of FileMaker Pro and is more robust with the addition of FileMaker Server software. When used with FileMaker, NorthStarDb is "open source," allowing experienced FM developers get under the hood to make customizations when needed.

Windows Vista Note

If you are using Windows Vista and FileMaker Pro with NorthStarDb please check on the FileMaker web site for FileMaker updates. even if you are not using Vista, it is a good idea to install the latests FileMaker update for your full copy of FileMaker.