FileMaker - Different Versions and Features

At present, FileMaker is one of the most widely used cross-platform relational database applications in the market. As it is designed by integrating a database engine with a GUI interface, FileMaker makes it easier for developers to create custom applications by dragging different elements into the form, screen or layout. But FileMaker was originally launched as a DOS-based application called Nutshell in early 1980s. The product was subsequently purchased by Claris, and renamed as FileMaker II. Thus, the versions of FileMaker can be divided into pre-FileMaker 6 and post-FileMaker 6.

Evolution of FileMaker as a Cross-Platform Relational Database Application

Version 4.0

In 1997, FileMaker 4.0 was released with a plug-in architecture. The version was designed just like Adobe Photoshop. The plug-in architecture enables developers to add custom features to the application. At the same time, the users also have option to use FileMaker as a web server using a bundled plug-in called Web Companion. The version 4.0 also allowed programmers to perform several file operations, along with sharing FileMaker files over the web or intranet.

Version 7

In 2004, FileMaker 7 was released with a new file format which supported file size up to 8 terabytes. The version also allowed individual fields to hold binary data up to 4 gigabytes or 2 gigabytes of 2-byte Unicode text per record. The enhanced relational model now enabled programmers to offer multiple tables for file. Also, the users have option to manipulate the related tables through a graphical relationship editor.

Version 8

The FileMaker 8 product family was introduced in 2005. The FileMaker 8 product family enabled developers to avail a number of advanced features like script variables, custom menus, tabbed interface, tooltips and enhanced debugging. Also, the users have option to copy and paste scripts, script steps, and whole tables and field definitions. The new features made it easier for developers to create custom database applications according to client’s specific requirements.

Version 9

FileMaker 9 was introduced in 2007 with a number of new features including conditional formatting, fluid layout auto-resizing, external SQL link, and hyperlinked pointers into databases. The Quick Start screens provided by FileMaker 9 further made it easier for users to access and update the database application in a quicker and more efficient way. The version also allowed uses to share images, documents, spreadsheets and other content of a field through emails.

Version 10

FileMaker 10 was released in 2009 with a completely revamped user interface. It came with a status bar that displayed some of the commonly used tools at the fingertip. Also, the version 10 came with a number of new features like script triggers, saved finds and dynamic report. It further allowed users to send emails directly through the SMTP server without using any additional email client.

Version 11 and 12

FileMaker 11 was released in 2010, whereas FileMaker 12 was introduced in 2012. The version 12 streamlined some of the major features introduced with FileMaker 11. FileMaker 11 allowed users to quickly create reports in a spreadsheet-like format, and make the reports appealing using a variety of charts. It further enabled users to search for information just like initiating web searches. FileMaker 12 made it easier for developers to accomplish precise design by using a variety of design layout tools. The version also included a variety of scripts, themes and design tools for iOS development. These versions also came with several new themes and database templates. FileMaker 12 further made it easier for programmers to create iOS databases.

Version 13

The most recent version of FileMaker was released in 2013. FileMaker 13 supports several web and mobile methods of data access. It further allows developers to create custom themes using colors, font, text size and similar attributes. The programmers can further create new fields, and drag and drop multiple fields directly into the layout. They can further reuse the custom themes across different projects. The version further optimizes the security of data using AES 256-bit encryption.

At present, users have option to choose from four distinct versions of FileMaker 13 according to their specific needs. Each user can chose FileMaker Pro 13, FileMaker Pro Advanced 13, FileMaker Server 13 or FileMaker Go 13. The features of each version of FileMaker 13 differ, along with the targeted users. So it is important for the user to compare the features of each version of FileMaker 13 according to his requirements.

We provide FileMaker development services. If you would like to hire FileMaker developers for your development needs, please contact Mindfire Solutions. 

Tips to Work with FileMaker Pro 13

As an efficient relational database application, FileMaker Pro is used by enterprises in cross-platform environments. FileMaker Pro 13 further comes with several new features to help programmers in creating a variety of custom business solutions for various devices. Along with new design, development and security features, the latest version of the relational database application also comes with several features to rapidly create applications for iPhone and iPad. However, it is important for new users to understand some tips and tricks to work with FileMaker Pro 13 more efficiently.

Tips for Designing Custom Solutions in FileMaker Pro 13

Understand Different Ways to Create a File

FileMaker Pro allows you to create databases in a number of ways. You can create a new file from the scratch or create a new file by importing data from another application. FileMaker allows you to import data stored as XML, Microsoft Excel and Tab-Separated Text (.tab or .txt). Likewise, you also have option to convert an older version of FileMaker Pro file. Also, you can create the file using Starter Solutions (templates). When you understand different ways to create a new file, it will be easier for you to decide the most appropriate method for creating a new file.

Use Field Picker to Define Database Fields

After crating the new database, you can use the Field Picker dialog box to define the fields in simple and quick way. The dialog box can also be used for adding or changing fields for an existing layout. Once you define the fields using Field Picker, they will be added to the Manage Database dialog box. However, you use the Field Picker to define fields for the current layout of the current table in FileMaker Pro. The dialog box will allow you to decide the field configuration through options like labels and field placement.

Use Field Picker to Control Fields

In addition to creating new fields, the Field Picker dialog box can also be used for deleting and modifying existing fields. While in Layout Mode you can always access the dialog box by clicking on the "Field Picker" button displayed in the status toolbar. After selecting one or more fields, you can simply right-click or control-click on them and select the Delete Field option. Likewise, you can choose the field type by choosing the new field type from the list. You can further choose the Field Options after right-clicking on the specific theme.

Use Themes to Make the Database Solution Look Professional

FileMaker Pro 13 allows you to use themes to provide professional look to the business solution. As a collection of coordinated styles, a theme allows you to easily define various attributes of the layout including color, font, background, parts and objects. You can further use the theme to provide a consistent look to both layouts and reports. The theme can be further changed for a layout in the Layout mode. You also have option to save the theme in a new name after incorporating desired changes. You must know how to use and manipulate themes to make your application look more professional.

Keep the Layout and Navigation Simple

Along with making the layout look professional, it is also important to keep it simple. You must make it a practice to avoid adding additional fields and objects to the layout. Likewise, you need to remove the fields and layout objects that will be used by the users rarely. If it is required to use secondary fields and layout objects, you can consider removing them from the main layout. You can move the secondary fields to another layout, or separate them using tab panels or slide panels. While designing the solution, you must keep the navigation option simple and fast. The users must be able to navigate without putting any extra time and effort. Instead of using buttons, you can consider using icons to covey the information to users without labeling.

While creating custom business solutions using FileMaker Pro 13, the developers must not forget to avail styles, custom themes and layout enhancements. The new features will help them in improving the application’s look, feel and performance without writing longer lines of code while doing FileMaker development.

We provide FileMaker database development service. If you would like to hire Filemaker developers for your database development needs, please contact us at Mindfire Solutions.

FileMaker Development best practices

Nowadays many organizations make use of FileMaker for creating custom solutions without giving extra time and effort. It is convenient to use as it allows the users to modify the database by simply dragging the new elements into screens, forms or layouts. Furthermore, the current version of the FileMaker is powered with new capabilities that help users to access the data across a variety of mobiles and other conventional devices.

Following certain guidelines as well as carrying out certain practices will result in getting accessible and robust solutions with the FileMaker 13.

Layout Mode to be More Accessible

The design of the layout of FileMaker solution determines to a great extent the accessibility of the same. With the help of the Accessibility Inspector, the programmers will be able to connect the field labels to the active field. Moreover, with this feature one can simply use the Layout button instead of the Status bar to get enhanced control and accessibility.

Optimization of Search Capabilities of the Application

Optimizing the FileMaker search capabilities goes a long way in increasing the accessibility of the FileMaker solution. Herein, each of the fields requires to be described properly in an unambiguous as well as clear manner for the purpose of enhancing the search capabilities of the FileMaker solution. As users access database in recent times from varied number of devices like laptops, computers, tablets, Smartphones, etc. it thus becomes extremely important that the solution finds the related data on the basis of particular search keywords entered by the users to display the results of the search faster. At instances of the data fields being properly identified along with results being clearly read out, the solution finds it easier to display the data.

Enhancement of Code Readability

FileMaker at present do not provide the developers with a code editor that is comprehensive. It, thereby, leads to the event of missing out the convenient options of writing clean and structured code by the developers. The programmers however have the option to access the external editors and snippets as well as various tools for keyword expansion. To enhance the readability of the code, it is important for the writers to write codes that are cohesive, which are able to be encapsulated and can be used repeated number of times without going through any hassle. The programmers are also required to actively handle probable errors without making use of additional dependencies apart from including grouping conventions that are strongly named.

Optimizing the Images

Optimizing images is another best practice for effective custom FileMaker development. The developers need to be careful enough to avoid the use of images as well as uninformative and functionless decorative objects at the time of designing the layout. Furthermore each of the text objects is to be spelled correctly in order to be easily read and understood by the reader reading the screen to optimize the use of images.

Improve the look & feel of the application

Working on the look as well as feel of the FileMaker solution is another recommended practice that results in enhancing the accessibility level of the same. Optimizing the layout by the application of high contrast themes is an easy way to enhance the look of the same. The developers should make sure that the document window of the application gives the users the option of increasing its Zoom level. Further, avoiding animation portals, tab control and videos helps greatly in making the solution work quicker. The application can further be enhanced to prompt the designers using the FileMaker solution for the next course of action with the help of the custom dialog box which can again be used to give out error alerts.

Option of List View Layout

Programmers have the option of choosing from both Table View Layouts and List View Layouts during the creation of the FileMaker solutions. However, the accessibility of the same can be enhanced only by the use of the latter that is the List View layout and hiding the former- the Table view layout. Moreover, in this context the programmers need to make use of field objects in place of the merge text at the time of working with List View Layout.

It is important to note that each of the updated versions of the FileMaker comes with new features as well as several enhanced capabilities to make the work faster and easier. The developer, thus, requires following the best practices with respect to the features of the latest version of database application.

We provide Filemaker database development services. If you would like to hire filemaker developers for your database development needs, please visit Mindfire Solutions.

FileMaker and Businesses - How Does It Satisfy Your DB Needs

The database needs vary from one enterprise to another. But each business want to pick a relational database management system (RDBMS) that is reliable, scalable and easy to manage. At the same time, the RDBMS also needs to meet the frequently changing information management needs of the business, while delivering predictable service level.

As a relational database application, FileMaker is designed to meet the information management needs of modern business. As the application is integrates a GUI-based interface and database engine, it becomes easier for users to modify the database according to their changing information management needs. At the same time a company can also use FileMaker to make its business data accessible over several platforms and devices.

Why FileMaker Pro can meet the DB Needs of Your Business?

Easy to Use

Each business looks for a database application that can be use by employees regardless of their level of computer literacy. FileMaker Pro comes with a graphical user interface (GUI) that can be accessed by users without putting any extra effort. So your employees can learn how to use the relational database application within a shorter span of time. Further, your business can migrate to FileMaker Pro without providing any specialized training to the employees.

Easy to Start

FileMaker Platform further enables users to easily create custom database solutions. For instance, the users can create database solution simply by dragging and dropping their existing Excel files into the FileMaker solution. Likewise, they can use several built-in tools and solution to create database solutions within a shorter span of time. The tools further make it easier for the users to modify the database according to their specific information management needs. That is why; your business can switch to the relational database applications regardless of your existing database management system.

Highly Scalable

Nowadays, each business has to manage a wide variety of information and data. The volume of the data or information also grows gradually with the expansion of the business. So each business wants to use a database application that is highly scalable. A business has option to choose from several products launched under the FileMaker Platform. The FileMaker Pro comes with features to help businesses in creating and running database solutions, whereas the FileMaker Pro Advanced provided specialized tools to create and manage custom solutions. That is why; your business can easily expand the relational database application to accommodate the increase in the volume of data or information.

Facilitates Multi-Platform Sharing

Nowadays, people access information and data on a variety of devices. A constant increase is being noted in the number of professionals accessing business data on their iPhones and iPads. So it has become essential for modern enterprises to enable their employees to access the business data anytime and anywhere. Your business can share FileMaker information safely across a variety of devices. The information can be accessed by users on platforms like Windows and Mac, and mobile devices like iPhone and iPad. Further, you can safely share the business information on the web or over a network.

Enhanced File Security Features

Unlike other relational database applications, FileMaker Pro comes with several features to keep database files secure and inaccessible. However, FileMaker aims to keep the security setup simple and transparent for end users. The security features of FileMaker cover both application development and system administration. These features protect the application’s integrity, while allowing end users to carry out the desired changes. The relational database application further protects data, script execution and meta-data through fine-grain access control mechanisms. At the same time, FileMaker Server allows users to avail additional security features like user authentication and protection of network resources.

Each enterprise also has option to choose from a number of products available under the FileMaker Platform. Based on its specific information management needs, a business can choose FileMaker Pro 13, FileMaker Pro 13 Advanced, FileMaker Go 13, or FileMaker Server 13. So it becomes easier for companies to create and deploy custom database solutions to effectuate the overall information management. You can get in touch with a custom Filemaker development company who can help you develop database application within allocated budgets and time schedules.

We provide Filemaker database design service. If you would like to hire Filemaker developer for your database development needs, please contact us at Mindfire Solutions.

What is new in FmPro Migrator 7.34

FmPro Migrator 7.34, that converts FileMaker databases into LiveCode, had been launched during the RunRevLive conference. David Simpson, a developer has introduced the new version over his FmPro Migrator software at the RunRevLive.14 conference in San Diego, which will be taking place this week or so. This particular software is going to transform FileMaker data into LiveCode programming language, additionally the latest version includes extended functions and also great flexibility. FmPro Migrator 7.34 is actually enhanced for the LiveCode 7, the new version of the app-creating language, it is an open source edition occurred after the successful Kickstarter venture which started in the year 2013. The previous 3 versions of FileMaker Pro 11, FileMaker Pro 12 and FileMaker Pro 13 all are compatible.

Now it has included support for changing FileMaker Pro Advanced 12 & FileMaker Pro Advanced 13 files to a LiveCode application stack file. Included support for transforming FileMaker 12 & FileMaker 13 script steps to LiveCode scripts. Moreover, enhanced the conversion of earlier script steps. FileMaker Tab Controls now are supported two levels deep while FileMaker 12 layout process. The new DataGrid object by LiveCode 6.5.2 is included in LiveCode template stack embedded in FmPro Migrator. Diagonal line objects now are created with a polygon object, to draw the object much more accurately than the earlierrectangle object. Included one new resizeStack handler in order to resize automatically the enclosing object group to offer the auto feature of scrollbars. This particular handler also is called every time the Layout Menu used to change among cards. Enhanced support for the FileMaker scrip steps with script parameters allotted to keys on layouts. The script steps consist of: Go to Layout, Perform Script, Open URL, Show Custom Dialog & Go to Record/Request/Page, Save Records as PDF, Save Records as Excel. Included cursor changing code to every layout object with the attached script step.

FmPro Migrator 7.34 will enable developers to function over 2 layers at the same time, and it also has brought, among the different additional features, even more accurate drawing of the objects. Databases could be saved to Excel & PDF files. Understanding the value of the LiveCode 7 developing cycle, Simpson stated regarding the latest platform and the software, he has really been constantly testing FmPro Migrator with the LiveCode 7 releases ever since 2014. He further said that his app at present appears to be razor-sharp on the Mac OS X along with Windows Hi-DPI displays, enhancing the professional appearance of FmPro Migrator.

In fact, it will be professionals who actually can expect to benefit more with the usage of FileMaker on their business plans. A FileMaker database is the perfect tool in order to collate & keep a record of all of the details a business requirements, from the internal organizational information to the sales data. Professional FileMaker developers could create this type of databases for the businesses of different sizes, enabling them to evaluate all the relevant statistics. Other organizations could possibly prefer to work with their personal databases, doing FileMaker training would be a good choice for those. Certified trainers could educate an organization's staff, a way to create and sustain their databases, providing their enterprises instant access to their information, as well as a great advantage in the competition. You can get in touch with a custom filemaker development company who can help you develop database application within allocated budgets and time schedules.

We provide filemaker database services. If you would like to hire filemaker expert for your database development needs, please contact us at Mindfire Solutions.

Some Techniques to Develop Accessible Solutions in FileMaker

Most of the enterprises at present use FileMaker (FM), for creating various customized solutions for their clients as it helps them develop these solutions without much of an effort and wastage of too much of time. This particular relational database application that works on multiple platforms helps the users in updating and modifying their database by simply dragging the new elements into the screens, forms, or layout. The FM version that is being used at present by the users comes up with a string of value added features that help the data to be accessible to the users on a wide variety of mobile as well as conventional devices. However, here it should be mentioned that the programmers need to consider as well as implement a few practices that are considered best in the industry, for developing various robust as well as accessible solutions with the help of FM 13, the present version of FileMaker.

Enhancing the Readability of the Code

One of the few drawbacks of FM is that it at present is unable to provide a comprehensive code editor that would have been pretty handy for the developers. Hence, when it comes to writing clean or structured codes, the application is seriously short of options and this is a concern for the developers. This is notwithstanding the fact that they have the option of using external editors or snippets along with a string of keyword expansion features as well as tools that come to their aid. As it is always important to write unified codes so that they can be encapsulated or reused without any problem whatsoever, they need to have an option of using grouping conventions that are strongly named. This will help them to handle all the potential errors, without inviting additional dependencies.

Improving the accessibility of the Layout Mode

The accessibility of various FM solutions is very much dependant on the design of the layout. The developers have the option of connecting the field labels with an active field with the use of Accessibility Inspector. The field labels are generally read by screen readers and hence it is imperative that buttons or navigational options are included within the tab order. Furthermore, each and every button needs to have simple as well as short text labels so that the screen reader is able to read the text label of each of the buttons and there is no need to add a title or an extra label to the text of the buttons.

Optimization of the Images

Using images during designing layouts needs to be totally avoided by the developers. Likewise, they need to avoid decorative objects in the event of absence of relevant functions or information. The Accessibility Inspector functionality provides them the option of describing the images in the respective container fields. However, there should be an option that will help them to spell each and every text object accurately, so that they can be read and understood properly by the screen reader. The presence of a pop-up menu instead of a drop down menu can also come in handy and effective.

List View Layout

This is another option that may come in handy. As the developers create FM solutions, they can choose from the List View option as well as from the Table View option of layout. However, when it comes to enhancing the solution accessibility, they can use the List View option of layout while hiding the other option. This needs to be changed and they should have the option of using field objects instead of merging texts, while they are working with the List View layout.

Now when it comes to improving the accessibility, the following things can be done in the Layout mode.

1. The current solutions can be enhanced by adding a particular layout that is designed for accessibility
2. Windows OS can be used as this will simplify the Windows, hide the status toolbar besides using various layout buttons, for providing the required controls
3. Buttons and navigation controls can be included in the tab order
4. All the buttons contain text labels along with naming conventions that are short, simple to understand and consistent.
5. Use of images on layouts needs to be minimized
6. The existing tooltips need to be copied and pasted into the Accessibility Inspector Title Field.

You can get in touch with a custom filemaker development company who can help you develop database application that are stable, scalable and secure.

We provide filemaker application development services. If you would like to hire filemaker developer for your database development needs, please contact Mindfire Solutions.

FileMaker WebDirect - Maximizing web solutions

The breakthrough web technology of FileMaker WebDirect is present in FileMaker Server 13, running custom business solutions in web browsers directly on laptops or desktops. It is really simple to operate with no requirement of web development skills. FileMaker WebDirect does not require using of coding tools like CSS, HTML5, JavaScript or PHP for the creation of robust web solutions. You simply need to have a basic idea about FileMaker to create solutions and make them accessible in web browsers.

For those who do not want installation or maintenance of software locally, this acts as an ideal alternative. It works really well for those companies whose different teams are located in different offices, as information sharing becomes easy. To use this you have to use FileMaker Pro for the creation of solutions that are tailored for web or those which use pre-built web layout with built-in starter solutions. Then your web solutions must be enabled there and the databases hosted on Server 13. Then the solutions can be simply accessed from the computer through web browser.

The look as well as feel of this application is like desktop applications, giving you some familiar functionalities like:

Live updates- If there are any changes in the solution or data, then you will be able to instantly access those changes without the need for refreshing the browser.

Desktop-styleinteraction- Styles, menus, charts, themes, etc can be used. Files can be dragged and dropped into container fields.

Automated processes- Scripts, conditional formatting as well as calculations can be enabled for validation of data as well as streamlining of workflow.

Some features, benefits as well as solutions of this technology are:

• The number of layout objects should be fewer; in fact the fewer the better. In this case the tabbed interfaces must be divided and put in small field sets on separate layouts.

• A solution can be easily as well as quickly deployed. Anyone can do that without the use of technologies like web authoring tools and such. All you need is a web browser that is compatible.

• Container data along with records can be exported or imported.

• Data can be accessed from almost any device- whether it is while travelling or from home or office.

• Custom web application can be deployed through locking as well as hiding of the status toolbar and menu bar.

• Sorting is one thing that makes WebDirect superior to desktop. The sorting cannot be done locally; so the sorting has to be done on server. This makes the entire process faster.

• If you want the best performance from a solution, themes should not be switched when navigating from one Layout to another. Theme info gets cached by WebDirect through the browser; so when you change themes extra massive data pushes are caused when they are not needed.

• When you to control the CSS amount passing over the network, remember that shared styles along with custom theme make huge differences. A classic existing layout requiring 850K bandwidth for display can be reduced to 25% when it is converted to modern FMP style without any customizations.

• The Format Painter should not be used until it has been fixed for preservation of custom styles. Its very own CSS is used for the creation of custom objects and when it is set for use as shared style, just the opposite happens.

Some other assorted features that are supported by FileMaker WebDirect are data entry validation, script triggers, conditional formatting, quick find, editing and adding data in fields, export and import of records, implicit record commits, etc. In short, it has a number of benefits and provides a great FileMaker database development experience but without needing FileMaker client application. It simply uses JavaScript, HTML5 and CSS to achieve its smooth functioning.

We provide custom filemaker development services. If you would like to hire certified filemaker developers for your development needs, please contact us at Mindfire Solutions.