For your needs, considering you require a simple, free or inexpensive database solution that can be accessed by users on various platforms including Apple computers, I recommend looking into the following options:
- Microsoft Access: While it is not free, it is a part of the Microsoft Office suite, which many organizations already use. It allows you to create a simple database that can handle your requirements. However, it may not be the best choice if you need cross-platform access for Apple users.
- Google Sheets: This is a free option that can serve as a simple database. You can create a spreadsheet to manage your volunteers and clients, and it allows for real-time collaboration among users. You can also use Google Forms to collect data and link it to your Google Sheets.
- Airtable: This is a user-friendly database tool that offers a free tier. It allows you to create a simple database with linked records, which can help you manage your volunteers and clients effectively. Airtable is accessible via web browsers, making it compatible with Apple computers.
- Microsoft PowerApps: Although not free, PowerApps is designed for building no-code business solutions and can be a good alternative to Access web apps. It allows you to create applications that can be accessed from various devices, including Apple products.
- Zoho Creator: This is another low-code platform that allows you to build custom applications. It offers a free tier for small teams and is accessible from any device.
These options should help you transition from Excel to a more structured database solution while remaining accessible to your team members on different platforms.