Base
The Base database program started off as added functionality for the other OpenOffice.org applications, but eventually evolved into a powerful database application in its own right.
Ubuntu doesn’t install the program by default, but you can easily install it yourself by going to the Ubuntu Software Center and entering “openoffice” in the search field, as shown in Figure 12-15.

Figure 12-15. Install OpenOffice.org Database via the Software Center
You will see that the other parts of the suite have a checkmark on their icons, indicating that they are installed, but the sixth entry doesn’t. This is the one you want, so double-click it, and then click the Install button on the following screen. After entering your password, the program will be downloaded and installed. When finished, it will be accessible from the Applications → Office menu.
When you run Base you’ll be prompted to either create a new database or open an existing one (or you can connect to an existing database connection). Once you have chosen what to do, you’ll be taken to the main screen, as shown in Figure 12-16.

Figure 12-16. The OpenOffice.org Base main screen
In Base you can use a variety of tools for inserting or editing data, ranging from handy wizards for creating tables, queries, forms, and reports, to a powerful ...