many databases into one?

[B. Keith]

I have 5 separate and reasonably identical databases for 5 separate departments. Its easier to give each departmetn only the data they need but occasionaly it would be nice to use one 'super-database' (catalogues, web updates etc.) without having to export from each individual database.

Is there anyway to set up a relations ship in which the super-database FIELD1 contains the data from all 5 external FIELD1's?

Any other solutions?

Thanks,

Bruce

[tlsparker]

Some folks might argue that you would be better off just using the super-database and controlling the data each department sees using Status(CurrentGroups) function in combination with a tightly controlled login procedure.

However, you undoubtedly have good reasons for keeping the databases separate. A simple way to update the super-database with all data entered in each "satellite" database would be to:

1. Set up a constant relationship between the files based on calculated fields set to equal "1"

2. Have users enter data into global fields on a dedicated data entry layout. Once data is entered, have the users hit a "submit" button that is attached to a script.

3. Write the script to create a new record in the current file and enter data from the globals using "Set Field." Then, have the script create a new record in the super file and enter data from the globals into the related fields using the "Set Field" command again.

For this to work, you will need to tightly control the user interface.

Good luck, and I'm sure you will receive other ideas, too.

Tom

[email protected]

http://www.tgparker.com/filemaker

[ January 23, 2002: Message edited by: Tom Parker ]