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Open source software has become considerably more important in recent decades. It offers flexibility, cost efficiency and strong community support, which makes it particularly attractive for companies. On this page we highlight the benefits of open source in general and introduce the gFM-Business ERP software in detail. gFM-Business offers CRM, ERP and billing functionality and is available in both free and paid open source versions for Claris FileMaker. We also look at how this software can be customized and extended with FileMaker.
Open Source: An overview
Definition and advantages
Open source software is software whose source code is openly accessible and can be viewed, modified and redistributed by anyone. The most important advantages of open source are
- TransparencyThe source code is publicly accessible, which increases security and trustworthiness.
- Flexibility and adaptability: Users can customize the source code to their specific needs.
- Cost efficiencyOften free or cheaper than proprietary software.
- Community supportAn active community helps with problems and contributes to the continuous improvement of the software.
Challenges
In addition to the numerous advantages, there are also challenges:
- Support and maintenanceOfficial support may be lacking, which refers companies to community support or their own resources.
- Compatibility and integrationAdaptations can lead to compatibility problems with other software solutions.
- Security risksOpenness can also offer vulnerabilities if not updated regularly.
gFM-Business ERP Software
Overview and functions
The main functions include:
- Usable on Apple Mac, Windows and iOS on the Single workstation or in a network with multiple users
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM)Management of customer information, communication, sales opportunities and support requests.
- Merchandise managementInventory management, ordering, warehouse management and supplier management.
- InvoiceCreation and management of invoices, quotations, delivery bills and reminders.
- Document managementCreation and management of documents, e-mails and newsletters.
- Corporate managementProject, task, inventory and personnel management as well as vehicles and statistics.
- InterfacesMulti-channel online store interface, DATEV, SEPA, electronic invoice, Swiss-QR and more.
- AI-supported functionsGenerate AI-formulated documents automatically and use AI application-wide.
- Internal documentationgFM-Business contains a developer module with complete internal documentation.
Free and paid open source versions
gFM-Business is available in different versions, including both free and paid options:
- Free versionOffers basic ERP functions and is suitable for smaller companies or beginners.
- Paid versions: Include advanced features, additional support and regular updates. These versions are ideal for medium-sized and large companies that have more comprehensive requirements. The gFM-Business Basic platform is more suitable for smaller companies and gFM-Business Professional for larger ones.
Customization and extension with FileMaker
A major advantage of gFM-Business is the ability to customize and extend the software with Claris FileMaker. This gives companies the flexibility to customize the software to their specific needs. Here are some possibilities:
- Custom ScriptsFileMaker allows users to create their own scripts to implement automated processes that fulfill specific business requirements.
- Layout adjustmentsUsers can customize the user interface to fit their workflows and design preferences.
- Integration with other systemsgFM-Business can be integrated with other systems and databases via FileMaker to ensure a seamless flow of information.
- Extensions and pluginsAdditional functions and modules can be developed or existing plug-ins can be integrated to extend the range of functions.
Advantages of using gFM-Business
Flexibility and adaptability
The ability to customize the software to meet specific business requirements is a major advantage of gFM-Business. This ensures that companies get exactly the functions they need and do not pay for superfluous features.
Cost efficiency
By using open source software such as gFM-Business, companies can save considerable costs, especially compared to proprietary ERP systems. The free version offers a cost-effective entry-level option, while the paid versions offer excellent value for money.
Community and support
Although open source software is sometimes seen as lacking in support, gFM-Business offers an active community and various support options. The software is fully documented internally so that any FileMaker developer can quickly familiarize themselves with the software. This ensures that companies find support when implementing and using the software.
