Easy to use open source database software?

[firehawk12]

Hey all,
I'm just wondering - is there an easy to use open source database program out there?
I'm looking at MySQL right now... but, of course, I don't know SQL. I can learn it, but if there's something simpler... or even a nice GUI layer for MySQL?
They apparently don't need anything fancy at all - just something to keep a list of contacts and do the related database things you'd want with those contacts - sort by occupation, location, etc.

Merci.

 

[Deleted 2]

Gedafe in combination with PostgreSQL.

 

[firehawk12]

I'll give that a look. Honestly, I don't mind learning queries and whatnot, but I need something that I can pass off to someone who doesn't know anything and still have it be useful for them. From Gedafe description that looks like it.

Can you run PostgreSQL locally though?

 

[Gertch]

Well, if it's simple and small, you could always use a text file database, or Excel spreadsheet.

Knowing SQL I'd probably use the newer MS SQL Express 2005. It's similar to the old desktop engine and free. But that would be tough for the average person to learn.

 

[RevDMV]

+1

Sounds like a simple contacts applicaion. Are you sure one isn't already avaialable that suits them? No need to reinvent the wheel if not needed.

 

[USS KG5]

or even a nice GUI layer for MySQL?

There is a fairly decent set of GUI tools for MySQL - have you tried the MySQL website I believe that is where I got them from?

 

[137th Gebirg]

http://www.mysql.com/products/tools/

 

[FalTorPan]

You could also use OpenOffice.org Base.

 

[Robert Maxwell]

You could also use OpenOffice.org Base.

Seconded. It is also very, very easy to create forms for data entry. I've done this for some simple inventory tasks for my own personal use.

But really, any database you want to use would be fine. For most applications, SQL databases are interchangeable. What you really need are tools to update and view them. OpenOffice can do this as long as you have the appropriate ODBC drivers installed. Same with MS Office. You can also roll your own web-based app, even if you just run it on a local PC. Something like Uniform Server or XAMPP or even EasyPHP would fit the bill. You'd just have to write some code, but there are plenty of frameworks out there that make this a snap.