NorthStarDb is not the ideal database for every organization. It is a good choice as a database for many organizations. How do you know if it is right for your group?

The best way to tell is to download a copy and see for yourself.

Mac or Windows - NorthStarDb runs on both Windows and Apple machines so NorthStarDb may be a good choice for ether platform or both.

Size is no object - How Much data do you need to store? The FileMaker platform can scale from a single runtime user (NorthStarDb Limited) to up to 200 users in a networked setting using FileMaker Pro and FileMaker Server. In terms of data storage it can scale from a few contacts to millions of contacts. The limits of performance for NorthStarDb are mostly limited by the size of the hard drive and the performance of the computer(s) NorthStarDb runs on.

Low Cost – NorthStarDb Limited can get your organization started with a good database for very little cost. When shared over a network the total cost of FileMaker and NorthStarDb licenses is higher but still comparable or lower than other database options.

With FileMaker or Customized? - NorthStarDb Limited may give you everything you need in one package. There are built in reports, Fields for name and address data and a structure to allow you to setup and store data about your contacts, their interests, activities, donations, and more. The Limited part is that it runs on just one machine and is not open to customization at the programming level. Data can be exported to formats for use with your word processor or spreadsheet. Full NorthStarDb with FileMaker provides an open platform which will allow both the creating of custom reports and even adding custom features.

How much training and support do I need? - Many organizations are using NorthStarDb without any real support or assistance from Clif Graves Consulting. Other organizations need more help to get good use out of their database. The organizations who are most happy with NorthStarDb tend to be those with ether an "accidental techie" (Someone who enjoys and is good at database and technology) or that have some level of technology support that understands FileMaker.

How much work is it? -

The value of any database system directly reflects the effort put into using it. No database is
easy or intuitive. That is the simple truth. In larger organizations one or more persons are dedicated to maintaining the database and training users.  Commercial database systems often say out loud
that a new report will take and experienced user over a week of work (or more) to write. Compared to other database systems, NorthStarDb and FileMaker is as easy or easier to use.