With the publication of "The Unconventional Database-Book" is a specialist book that deliberately steps out of line: it is aimed at all those who see databases not only as technical tools, but also as models of thought for clearer, better structured work.
Author Markus Schall - Developer of gFM-Business ERP software based on FileMaker - combines in this work years of practical experience with a fresh, accessible view of databases. Especially for users of FileMaker or the gFM-Business ERP-Suite the book offers numerous "aha" moments, because it explains precisely those structures that are often used intuitively in everyday life but are rarely really understood.
More than just SQLDatabase thinking as a thinking tool
Unlike traditional introductions to SQL or relational databases, the book does not start with the command syntax, but with the thought processes behind it:
- What does a "relationship" actually mean in the database model?
- How does a clean table structure help me when working with scripts and layouts later on?
- Why are key structures and field definitions not only technically but also conceptually crucial?
Straight FileMaker developer - Whether you are a beginner or experienced - you know the phenomenon: many solutions "work", but over time grow into constructs that are difficult to understand. This book shows how to prevent this from happening from the outset - with a well thought-out structure, clear organization and a way of thinking that supports long-term maintainability and expandability.
gFM-Business as a practical example in the background
As a developer of gFM-Businessthe modular ERP software based on FileMaker, Markus Schall not only contributes theoretical knowledge, but also concrete application experience. Many of the thought models that are explained in the book - for example on process logic, customer and Article management or for rights and user control - are reflected in the daily practice of the gFM Business solution.
Anyone working with gFM-Business will find valuable background information on the structures, relations and processes used in the book. Anyone developing or adapting their own solutions with FileMaker will receive practical ideas on how to build better data models - without getting lost in technical jargon or unnecessary complexity.
AI, lithium & clarity - two unusual chapters
Particularly noteworthy are two chapters that go far beyond the usual scope of a database book:
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"Using AI as a tool" shows how systems such as ChatGPT can be used to support database concepts, SQL analysis or idea development - in a practical way, without glorifying technology.
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"Lithium for thinking" sheds light on the biochemical level of mental clarity. The trace element lithium is not treated here as a medicine, but as food for thought: What do we need - also as developers - in order to think in a permanently structured and clear way?
These chapters make the book not only a reference book, but also a Reflection space for dealing with complexitya topic that is often underestimated in software development and database design.
For whom is the book worthwhile?
The book is aimed at:
- FileMaker beginners who finally want to get the hang of it
- Advanced users who want to build their solutions more robustly
- gFM Business users who want to understand the structure behind the interface
- Entrepreneurs who not only want to use software, but also consciously design it
- Creative people who want to bring order to data and thoughts
Conclusion: A book for clear heads
"The Unconventional Database Book" is more than just a handbook - it is a think tank for anyone who understands clarity, structure and good software design as part of a larger process. Especially in the context of FileMaker and gFM-Business, it offers valuable orientation - without being preachy, but with the courage to ask unusual questions.
The book is now available in bookstores and online platforms such as Amazon, Thalia and Hugendubel.
