With all of the new, constantly improving software, mobile applications and Web resources available to businesses nowadays, as an enterprise owner, you may not be sure where to start or what to look for in a program. The world of technology is massive, nuanced and growing at almost terrifying, exponential rates. It can be difficult for companies to keep up with this sort of growth. From cloud storage to analytics and beyond, there are a lot of aspects to think about when it comes to business software and technology. Truly, it’s a brave new world out there, and businesses need to look to the right sources and consultants for help navigating it.

Some database software has been around for decades and continues to improve its products well into the 21st century. There are companies that so believe in the dependency and longevity of these programs that they specifically offer FileMaker development to their clients, assisting them with the ins and outs of the seemingly outdated software.

Even if this computer program is a senior in its league, it is still incredibly useful when it comes to organizing documents and other vital information, handling intra-business communication, file-sharing and maintaining data.

Database software is more than just a simple place to store information; it can be administered as a wide-scale managerial program.

Here are a few surprising capabilities you’ll find in your database program that will make you reconsider shelving it away for good:

1. Asset tracking: Keep track of company and in-office assets with easy-to-use programming that informs you of the current market value of said assets. This surprisingly useful tool is great when considering how to invest money into your business. While you’re tracking assets, you can also keep an eye on your company inventory and maintain invoices and expense reports to help review the money being earned versus money being spent.
2. Project management: You can easily manage and share specifics regarding a project, laying out deadlines, tracking progress and assigning tasks. In addition to basic project management, you can maintain calendars, collect and organize research and generally maintain up-to-date records and data. With this tool, everyone will be on the same page and be able to effectively communicate on the work that needs to be done.
3. Creating product catalogs: You wouldn’t think to use database software to create a catalog, but you can effortlessly keep records of your company’s products in this manner. Compile product serial numbers, details, descriptions and even photographs and images together, giving employees and possible customers an accessible reference point.
4. Better employee management: Another unexpected and incredibly useful tool is the ability to maintain logs of the work employees are putting in and their weekly earnings, in addition to keeping up-to-date staff profiles. Now you can maintain more transparent staff records and become a better manager overall.

Even if you’re not an IT wizard, database software may be worth a second look – and if you find the program a bit daunting, you can easily seek out someone willing to work with you on FileMaker development and how to navigate this and other programs.

Harris is an expert in business software. While he is excited about innovation in the field, he also knows that some programs are tried and true, and still useful even though they may not be the very newest out there. He advises companies to toe the line between leaping ahead and sticking with what has always worked.