INFORMATION DATABASE WITHIN ARCHICAD?

[Jeff Galbraith]

Is it possible to create a non-graphical information database in archicad with custom data fields, that can be searched and filtered, and used to populate a schedule?

There are some processes we do as architects where we research many options, such as selecting exterior glazing assemblies. We go through this selection process on every project and it would be helpful to have a database of all the information we have collected for other jobs so our staff doesn't have to start over, or hunt through other project folders to find the information they are looking for.

Is this something that can be done in archicad?

If not, is there a database software that connects well with Archicad, such as filemaker?

[Christophe Fortineau]

FileMaker is available on windows and MacOS > great about collaborations
Filemaker is often used by my clients using Archicad.
Their use of Filemaker is very variable.
This ranges from using a simple Excel export exported from Archicad to the interoperability of a 3D model with each of its elements in the database managed via FileMaker.
Anyway it is quite possible and directly related to your needs and efforts to set up such a device.
There are paid and generic solutions that can meet this expectation. In France there is "BiM Office". I had the opportunity to retrieve the user reviews several times and their feedback is globally negative (for now). The quest for a dynamic database is very relevant. Developing your own tool with Filemaker is all the more relevant as it will be adapted to your professional needs. Acquiring a generic tool will be more complete certainly but it will force you to a mastery and a method of design that may not be in line with your needs.
I would compare the creation of a database with filemaker as the creation of its own nomenclature in archicad: it exists in the standard Archicad file some examples of nomenclatures but it is sometimes more comfortable to create one's own nomenclature rather than to try understand and then use an existing nomenclature.

It's a choice that only belongs to you !