Basecamp MCP Server by CData

What is Basecamp MCP Server by CData?

Basecamp MCP Server by CData is a read-only Model Context Protocol (MCP) server that allows large language models (LLMs) like Claude Desktop to query live Basecamp data using natural language questions. It is built on the CData JDBC Driver for Basecamp, which exposes Basecamp data as relational SQL models. This server is intended for users who want to retrieve Basecamp information through AI assistants without writing SQL.

How to use Basecamp MCP Server by CData?

Clone the repository, build the JAR with mvn clean install, download and license the CData JDBC Driver for Basecamp, and configure the connection string using the driver’s utility. Create a .prp file with JDBC connection properties (prefix, server name, driver path, JDBC URL, etc.). Then add the server to your Claude Desktop config (claude_desktop_config.json) pointing to the JAR and .prp file. Once configured, ask your AI client questions about your Basecamp data (e.g., “How many open tickets do I have in the SUPPORT project?”).

Key features of Basecamp MCP Server by CData

• Read-only access to live Basecamp data
• Exposes Basecamp as SQL tables via CData JDBC Driver
• Provides tools: get_tables, get_columns, and run_query
• Works with stdio transport (local machine only)
• Free MIT-licensed server (driver requires separate license)

Use cases of Basecamp MCP Server by CData

• Query project progress, ticket counts, or calendar events via natural language
• Integrate Basecamp data into AI assistants for quick team insights
• Explore Basecamp data schemas without writing SQL

FAQ from Basecamp MCP Server by CData

Is this server read-only?

Yes. The README explicitly states this project builds a read-only MCP server. For full read, write, update, delete, and action capabilities, CData offers a separate beta MCP Server for Basecamp.

What dependencies are required?

You need Java to run the JAR, the CData JDBC Driver for Basecamp (download, install, and license), and a client like Claude Desktop. The server itself is built with Maven.

How does the server connect to Basecamp?

It uses a JDBC connection string configured via the CData JDBC Driver’s connection utility. The connection string is placed in a .prp file along with the driver path and other properties. OAuth authentication is handled in a browser during setup.

What transport does the server use?

The server uses stdio transport, so it can only be used with clients running on the same machine as the server.

How do I troubleshoot connection issues?

Use the CData JDBC Driver’s connection string builder to test and copy the connection string. Ensure the driver is properly licensed and the .prp file is correctly configured. If problems persist, contact CData Support or join the CData Community.