More than I expected

Like so many who have used a number of Mac databases over the years, Bento has been my go-to for the past couple of years. Their end of support left me with several large files that wouldn’t go with me to El Capitan. Google led me to Tap Forms. The selling point was the conversion of Bento files. The price was right to give it a try, but I admit to thinking it would be a hassle if it worked at all. I downloaded the Tap Form manual, bought the app. Surprise. The conversion went really well. So I started playing with the forms, layouts, etc. All good. Then I tried to compose and print mailing labels. And tried. And tried. Hit all sorts of issues.

Decided to use the email support offered in the manual and online. Wow. Bendan Duddridge has to have the best customer service in the business. At least, that has been my experience. I contacted him (on a Sunday evening yet!) and he walked me through my problems. Okay, have to say it took more than one email to get clarity on some how-tos (and I thought I knew databases) but he was prompt, polite, and patient in getting me to where I needed to be. I found out later that he was even fielding some of my inquiries while he was at dinner with family. Above and beyond; I wouldn’t have expected that.

The manual for Tap Forms 3 is very helpful though it didn’t really get me all the steps I needed. I could be wrong, but it seems there’s the assumption the user will be able to fill in the blanks. Maybe some can. I couldn’t. But as soon as I got the stuff between the blanks, all came together. I’m using two Macs now in separate offices; only one is using El Capitan. My plan is to get all my Bento stuff to Tap Forms, go El Cap on Mac 2, and leave Bento behind. Hopefully with no regrets.

Bottom line: the support I received was exceptional and I look forward to exploring the many capabilities of this app. So far, impressive. I look forward to seeing the manual and other support avenues grow.

Missouri writer about Tap Forms Organizer and Secure Database