University with Multiple Databases

How a dedicated FileMaker support team was able to make cluttered databases at a large university work better for everyone.

A large university was relying on multiple databases to support a variety of functions across many different departments. The user base for these databases had grown steadily over the years, but there was still no dedicated FileMaker developer to help streamline, organize, and customize the program so that it worked efficiently for everyone that needed to access the information.

The Challenge

The prevailing challenge when the university first came to PCI for assistance was a lack of FileMaker support and poorly designed, cluttered user interfaces. In addition, the university’s IT team recognized that there was an opportunity to consolidate the database licenses under a single, more cost-effective licensing contract and give users access to a dedicated, expert support team.

A FileMaker Health Assessment was the first step in untangling the university’s knot of databases. ... As a result of PCI’s FileMaker Health Assessment and ongoing Maintenance Support Program, this university was able to assess and inventory all users and systems.

The Solution

A FileMaker Health Assessment was the first step in untangling the university’s knot of databases. The Health Assessment, offered for free as part of a two-month commitment to our Maintenance Support Program (MSP), was performed on all databases as well as the database server which provided the IT department with a condition assessment and inventory of all systems and users as well as recommendations on FileMaker Server setup, backups and maintenance best practices. The MSP team also made sure that all users and the server had the most recent version patches installed. Along with the Health Assessment, the MSP team provided a fresh set of eyes to review each department’s systems and processes. Our FileMaker experts were able to demonstrate how each department could use FileMaker Pro in their environment. As a result, different departments engaged our Custom Development services to enhance and expand the capabilities of their existing systems.

Outcomes

As a result of PCI’s FileMaker Health Assessment and ongoing Maintenance Support Program, this university was able to assess and inventory all users and systems, receive recommendations on FileMaker Server setup, backup, and maintenance best practices and ensure all FileMaker installations were up to date. PCI was also able to consolidate their many department licenses under a single contract with much better per user pricing as well as a channel partner discount. The university and its IT team can rest easy knowing that they have expertise on their side.

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