Features of Software
Since File-Maker Pro is Database software it allows us to create a database that contains information about all the players and setting up tables and fields
File maker Pro also has a ‘Finding and replacing data’ function that allow its user to search through the database so that coaches will be able to find a player or a certain fixture from the database faster without having to browsing through the entire table.
As well as setting up tables, you can also create Reports/ layers that display information regarding to a certain topic, which are useful for coaches for printing out Team Sheet for matches (Formation &Players) and Training Program, they could even send them through the school’s email. The user can also arrange the positions of the data in any way they wish, for example, they can put all the players in descending order of how many goals players had scored which makes it easier for the coach to see who is performing well and who isn’t . File maker also has a function that allows the user to search through database, which is extremely useful for coaches who might need to find the right kind of player or just checking whether a player is physically fit for the match or not.
This software is also easy to use, this is important as not all coaches in the school are familiar with database software, they need a system which is comprehensive and easy to access. It also allows excel spreadsheet to be imported into the database. It is very handy since it allows players to create their own record, contain information that are needed for their own profile thus reduce amount of work the coaches have to do when they are filling information into the database.
Another advantage of using file maker pro is that you can create scripts and function that could be helpful for the user. These scripts could be created according the creator’s knowledge with programming, ranging from simple scripts like spell check and hyperlink to more complicate once like updating itself automatically where or whenever it is needed.
I can also create scripts which automatically update itself over time such as changing ‘Rating this season’ and ‘Goal Set up’ back to zero every season. These scripts will make my system more efficient and more dynamic.
In addition to the scripts, File maker pro contains many useful functions which could be potentially be very useful to its user.
Drop List it gives couple of options for the user which saves time for the user as they don’t have to write it out again. In a way, it acts as a validation as it only offers options that the user will need therefore eliminate any kind of error. For example, I will be using Drop list in the
Radio button – it’s almost the same as drop list but with fewer option. It is more useful for fields such as Injury (yes or no) which has fewer options. And since it has fewer option s available, it vastly reduce the time it need to fill in information for the field. Quick and time saving is crucial as most of the coaches are teachers themselves, they would already have a busy schedule with lesson etc.
Validation – its function is to make sure that data is entered into a field correctly. FileMaker Pro would display a message if you enter data incorrectly. It eliminate chances of human error hence making my system user friendly as it gives kind of idea of what data should’ve been enter. It can prevent students (players) entering any irrelevant data.
Related table & Fields- It allow the data to be link with (same data from) other tables simultaneously which keeps data in its most Up-to-date form. It is useful for fields such as ‘goal scored’ which are constantly changing and it helps keeping the data more efficiently.
Font – In File maker pro, you can change the size, font style and color according to your wish. Which is useful as it can highlight the essential fields in that table as well as making the system looks better and professional.
Wizard - File Maker pro has a guide that contains all the information you’ll need to fully operate this software. As mentioned above, our coaches aren’t really familiar with database software, and a comprehensive guide would be extremely helpful
