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Section 6.10 Review of database programs
Guidelines on selecting software for bibliographic databases are included in
Section 6.8.5. This section looks in detail at three programs that are used by
libraries and resource centres for bibliographic databases – WINISIS (the
Windows version of CDS-ISIS), Idealist, and Inmagic (including Inmagic
DB/Textworks). This review covers the latest versions of each program available
at the time of printing (early 2003), plus the DOS version of Inmagic (called
Inmagic Plus) as this is still a very useful program.
Each program is assessed separately on the basis of the aspects outlined in
Section 6.8.5. The table at the end of this section compares all the main features
of the three programs. The notes in this section provide additional information
on some of the features, plus an element of evaluation.
Programs such as Access, dBase and Foxpro are sometimes used by libraries and
resource centres. However, they are not covered, as they all have fixed field
lengths and have no repeating field function, and, although flexible, they cannot
easily be developed and updated by staff with non-technical skills. Filemaker Pro
is on the borderline, as it has a repeatable field function, but does not have
variable length fields.
6.10.1 Inmagic DB/Textworks (and Inmagic Plus)
Inmagic DB/Textworks is an easy-to-use program that is suitable for large
resource centres or those that need a database to support a range of activities.
Inmagic Plus is the DOS version and Inmagic DB/Textworks is the Windows
version. Both were developed by Inmagic Inc., Woburn, Massachusetts, USA.
Inmagic DB/Textworks is quite expensive, but is quick to learn and can perform
a wide variety of activities. Inmagic Plus has the flexibility of the Windows
version, but none of the very recent developments. Inmagic Plus is no longer
developed or supported, but along with the Library Guide (a set of pre-defined
databases including catalogue, orders, users, and loans), is available as freeware
for those who do not require support.
The term Inmagic is used when discussing both programs in this chapter. The
individual names DBTextworks and Inmagic Plus will be used to discuss the
individual programs.
Program suitability Inmagic is designed for use with bibliographic data, as well
as other textual and numeric data. A number of calculation functions are
available both within and across records.
Repeatable fields and variable length fields Inmagic has variable length fields and
the ability to repeat fields.
SECTION 6: COMPUTERS, ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION AND DATABASES
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