Only 1 page needs to be online

[CamMac2]

I have tried to figure this out, but now have more questions than answers.

Our Main database is a simple contact database for mailing lists. Will be shared by 5-7 users. We have a cgi form on our website for people to apply to our college, but it is clunky to import info into filemaker (must open a .csv file in excel, than import to filemaker). Also, administrator must wait weeks for IT to update the form. (Info on the college app changes every semester).

I would like to have the college app be in filemaker, and automatically be part of the database when the applicant submits it. Also would like the administrator to change the info whenever she wants.

I thought FXForge might be the answer, but is that overkill for this one page? (overkill in that we would need Filemaker Server 7 Advanced, and I would have to check the server specs for compatibility)

We have not bought any Filemaker Server software yet. We are updating from 6 to 7. This seems very simple, but I don't know the answer. Simple contact database shared by 5-7 users; One form that is easily imported to filemaker, and easily updated by someone with no experience. (Maybe I make the form in dreamweaver and use Contribute to allow easy updating, and forget about it being in filemaker?)

Thanks for any suggestions...

Cheri

[Garry Claridge]

If the database is running on OS X you can use a Form there with some PHP and maybe some Applescript to update FM.

Good Luck.

Garry

[CamMac2]

Sigh...So much I don't know yet...

Your answer reminds me of the old joke showing 2 scientists viewing a huge math formula on a chalkboard, and one points to the middle of the formula, and says: "and Here, a miracle happens" ;-)

What I DO know: The database is running on OSX;

Where the miracle happens: "Form there with some PHP and maybe some Applescript to update FM".

Where can I look to find more info about PHP, Forms, etc. Are you still referring to a cgi form? or is there something special about PHP and FM7? I've heard people mention PHP and OSX, and have tried to see how I can write PHP on my mac with OSX, but haven't found any answers...

Thank you for your help!

Cheri

[Martin Brändle]

Is the cgi a requirement? Why don't you use the custom web publishing already built in FileMaker 5?

Even your form could be a simple html file, not even CDML would be required.