Freebee Friday: Instant Database

When it comes to making quick databases, nothing matches Apple’s FileMaker’s ability to organize and display data without the need to have a degree in programming. It’s even easier to get started with the company’s Bento Template Exchange where professional and talented amateurs share their databases. There are 700 templates available for Macs, iPhones and iPads, including ones for lesson plans, contacts and even a student survival kit for organizing a school-year’s worth of notes, homework and projects. In fact, more than half a million templates have been downloaded since it was started in June, 2009. If you’re ambitious, you can even offer your own template for others to use.