Your Spreadsheet: Spread Too Thin?

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To I ay aka {i Ala ag Sh a M8 Hh (NAPSA)—For millions of home office and small business workers, spreadsheet software is standard for crunching numbers. Over time, however, people have even used spreadsheets to capture other types of information. These spreadsheets are often spread too thin when used for managing and sharing text-based information such as contact lists. All too often, people make the mistake of trapping information in a spreadsheet that could better be used in other ways. They want to put spreadsheet data on the Web that can also be updated by other browsers via the Internet. Or, add photos of family members whose names they already have in a spreadsheet. Neither is possible with a spreadsheet. Using modestly-priced database software, however, you can do all these things and more. For example, with easy-to-use database software such as FileMakerPro,it’s a snap to convert spreadsheet information into a database format that gives new life and possibilities to the information you’ve already entered. You simply drag and drop your spreadsheet on top of the FileMakericon. In seconds, the software transforms spreadsheet information into a friendly, easy-to-use and easy-to-view database. With the information in a database, you can easily create catalogues, photo albums, wedding plans, home inventories, mass mailings—all with any variety of graphic and even audio files— within minutes and without reentering your original information. Tet) agp a $4 ‘Notes)": bt “TPQ Sh SY Overworking your spreadsheets? Time to think databases. “Microsoft Excel and FileMaker Pro may come from different parents, but they certainly work well together,” says Maria Langer, noted author of several books about software. In fact, with builtin file translation and features that perfectly complement each other for a wide range of tasks, a database extends the capabilities and life expectancy of any spreadsheet list. Computer users can get free tips on easily creating stunning catalogues, mass mailings, product inventories and much more by converting spreadsheets to a database by downloading a free guide and trial version of FileMaker at www.filemaker.com/excel. The Drag, Drop and Gosite also features tips and techniques for exchanging data between Excel and FileMaker Pro; a free, downloadable, full color step-by-step guide on using the two, written by Maria Langer; plus everything you need to know to easily transform spreadsheets into rich, powerful solutions you can customize to suit your needs. For more information, call 1-800-325-2747.