Need suggestions for record keeping software

[Jetfixer]

I seem to have developed a reputation as the go-to mechanic in my area. As such I find myself in need of some kind of record keeping software. I would simply like to keep searchable records of which/who's bikes I worked on, what I did to them, and what I charged them, so I can be consistent and fair to all. I'm thinking even just a database template or something like it. I would very much prefer an open source/free program or template since I'm not running any form of commercial shop or business. I'm simply working on the Spyders of my friends and other club members. I don't need online access to parts databases or repair manuals. I don't need to print invoices, etc. I just want a way to remember what I did and what I charged for a given job. I use LibreOffice already. If anyone knows of such software/templates, please let me know. Thank you!

[K80Shooter]

When I had a shop, I used Quickbooks for several years. As our fleet got bigger, I then had to look into something with more capability.

After re-reading your post I see that you're looking for something free, not sure what that might be.

[K80Shooter]

I just for grins looked at the quickbooks website. I see that it's now like a lot of others and run on a subscription service. When I used it you purchased the program and was done unless you did tax's and reporting to IRS and State. No way would I use it now.

Again good luck.

[CopperSpyder]

If you have Microsoft Office, you should be able to put something together using Excel.

[Excoastie]

If you want to create/ use a database, most of the software will require at least a basic understanding of Structured Query Language (SQL)The basics are, but the more advanced stuff can be daunting.
There are several open-source options if you want to go this route. But like @CopperSpyder suggested, the easiest option may be to use Excel.

Good luck!

--Exco

[GuruSMI]

... the easiest option may be to use Excel...

One could also use LibreOffice instead of Microsoft office. OpenSource and free of licencing. Also there are a couple of OpenSource-Solutions about ERP out there.

I would suggest to generate a workbook in OpenOffice/LibreOffice etc. At the backend both have a SQL Server available. Also a smaller DBMSysten like MS Access. The documentation about Programming in LibreBasic/Starbasic is not that bad. Ant as already said. It is free of licensing costs and avaiable on Windows, Mac and Linux. My own business is managing 3D-Printers, Working queues, Material, Project plans etc. All of that i did need around 5.000 Lines of code for Macros etc. I did all of it in Excel and now i'm unhappy not to have it in an OpenSource-Alternative. Just my 5 cents.

[Jetfixer]

I'm aware of Excel and Access and the open source versions. Is anyone aware of any existing templates for either of these? I really only want to have a searchable record of what I did, who it was for, and what I charges them.

[cruisinTX]

I'm a big fan of using Excel like a couple of others suggested. It is an incredibly versatile tool that is almost unlimited in what you can do with it. I use it to track mileage and maintenance on my stable of 4 BMWs, 2 Hondas and the Spyder. I also have an extensive sheet that I track my workouts in. It has spots for home workouts including aerobic time on the stationary bike and a section for tracking real bicycle rides that give me calories burned based on my weight, average speed broken down in tenths of MPH and time ridden and I recently added a page to that one to track medications. All it takes to create something in Excel is a little imagination and some basic knowledge of math.

[IdahoMtnSpyder]

Check this one out.

https://sourceforge.net/projects/frappe-books.mirror/

[UtahPete]

Quick books. Not free, I know, but capable of all you want to do without learning programming.

[IdahoMtnSpyder]

Do a Google search for free Quickbooks alternative. You probably will find something you can use.