Without beginning to write nearly the novel that Tom has (hey Tom!), I too
have custom applications using the Blackbaud database. I don't run the
scheduled syncs that he does (although that's an interesting thought), but
I have a separate database (MySQL), and I access both sets of tables using
Adobe ColdFusion (plug: with ColdFusion, it is MUCH easier to write apps
than with ASP).
I have our entire student information system running on CF. It pulls most
data from Blackbaud, but our extra data (comments, marks/demerits,
activity notes, etc.) from MySQL. To echo Tom, getting the initial SQL
statements is a bit tricky, but once you learn how the tables are built
its not that tough. Plus, if you use the "Query" function to get data
inside the BB client, there is a "View SQL" option under the View menu
which shows you the SQL used. Then you can copy that into your apps. Very
handy.
I'm excited about EE8, which I've heard nothing about. I look forward to
possiblities with actually writing data back the db in a supported way.
We use two pieces of Blackbaud: EducationEdge for Reg Office, and
Financial Edge for Student billing, etc. We use Portal from inResonance
for Admissions and Generations from inResonance for Advancement. You can
make them work together if you take a little time to build some queries
and if you establish a good process for matching and moving data.
Good luck with your search!
Peter Hoopes
Director of Technology
St. Andrew's School
phoopes@standrews-de.org
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