From: Maxim Kovgan (maxk_at_nonexisting.hamakor.org.il)
Date: Sun 20 Jun 2004 - 09:36:49 IDT
David Howard wrote:
> Hi all,
>
> I've been reading the recent thread on DBs with some interest, since
> I've been interested for some time in learning how to use a DB. My only
> previous DB experience was long ago with a DOS-based version of Lotus
> 1-2-3, with very clunky Hebrew support. I am looking for a database
> programme suited to my needs.
>
> The DB would be used by English teachers in a Jerusalem High School, to
> keep detailed ongoing records of students - class, hakbatzot, grades
> etc. Currently, such records are kept in (Hebrew-enabled) MS Excel
> files: English interface, all data in Hebrew. OOcalc offers some
> solutions, but like Excel requires alterations to multiple spreadsheets
> when any changes are made. A DB with full Hebrew support is an obvious
> solution. MS Access is *not* an option.
>
> Most of the actual and potential users are native English speakers,
> MS-centric, with poor Hebrew literacy, with limited computer skills (is
> this redundant? ;-) ), and with *no* CLI skills.
>
> The requirements therefore are:
>
> 1. *Full* Hebrew support
> 2. GUI, preferably but not essentially in English
> 3. Ability to import existing MS Excel data
> 4. Reasonable learning curve for the technically-challenged
First allow me to ask:
does your school use Linux as Desktop OS ? :)
Part I. DBMS:
.............................
The choice should be based on workload and data size.
Alternative 1. PostgresSQL http://www.postgres.com
Alt. 2. MySQL http://www.mysql.com
I suggest Postgres. I think you will need features like triggers &
stored procedures.
Part II. Frontend:
.............................
Alternative 1: "Rekall". it's homepage is: http://www.totalrekall.co.uk
Alternative 2: create a web based interface to the DB on top of
Apache/PHP/{PostgreSQL/mySQL}. the teachers/secretary will browse the
site, and play with the data.
Alternative 3: OOo Calc.
The only one who will have a steep learning curve (again if & only if
he/she's decided to work in a small time frame) is the Sysadmin, who
will have to learn DBA, and create a good frontend.
I do suggest alt. 1 as the best idea, inspite the fact it is
Best,
M.
>
> Any and all suggestions will be gratefully received.
>
> TIA
>
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