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FileMaker
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|
| FileMaker | |
|---|---|
| Developer | Claris |
| Initial release | April 1985 |
| Stable release | 21.0.1.53 ('FileMaker 2024')
/ June 2024 |
| Operating system | |
| Type | Database management system |
| License | Proprietary |
| Website | www |
FileMaker is a cross-platform relational database application developed by Claris International, a subsidiary of Apple. It integrates a database engine with a graphical user interface (GUI) and security features, allowing users to visually modify a database. Versions for desktops, servers, iOS, and web-delivery have been released.
The desktop app is based on a DOS application originally named FileMaker, which was then developed primarily for the Apple Macintosh and released in April 1985. It was rebranded as FileMaker Pro in 1990. Since 1992 it has been available for Microsoft Windows and for the classic Mac OS and macOS, and has cross-platform capabilities.
FileMaker Go, the mobile app, was released for iOS devices in July 2010.
FileMaker Server allows centralized hosting of apps which can be used on both the desktop and mobile apps. A cloud variant, named FileMaker Cloud, is hosted by Claris.
History
[edit]FileMaker began as an MS-DOS-based computer program named Nutshell, developed by Nashoba Systems of Concord, Massachusetts in the early 1980s. Nutshell was distributed by Leading Edge, an electronics marketing company that had recently started selling IBM PC-compatible computers.[1][2]
With the introduction of the Macintosh, Nashoba combined the basic data engine with a new forms-based graphical user interface (GUI). Leading Edge was not interested in newer versions, preferring to remain a DOS-only vendor, and kept the Nutshell name. Nashoba found another distributor, Forethought Inc., and introduced the program on the Macintosh platform as FileMaker in April 1985. When Apple introduced the Macintosh Plus in 1986, the next version of FileMaker was named FileMaker Plus to reflect the new model's name.
Leading Edge published Nutshell 2.0 until September 1986, after which Nashoba marketed the software itself.[3] In mid-1987 Forethought was purchased by Microsoft for the former's PowerPoint software. Microsoft expected to continue distributing FileMaker and deprioritize the competing Microsoft File,[4] but Nashoba decided to self-publish the next version, FileMaker 4.[1]
Purchase by Claris
[edit]Shortly after FileMaker 4's release, Apple Computer formed Claris, a wholly owned subsidiary, to market software. Claris purchased Nashoba to round out its software suite. By that point, Leading Edge and Nutshell had faded from the marketplace because of competition from other DOS- and later Windows-based database products. FileMaker continued to succeed on the Macintosh platform.
Claris changed the product's name to FileMaker II to conform to its naming scheme for other products, such as MacWrite II, but the product changed little from the last Nashoba version, with several minor versions following.
In 1990, the product was released as FileMaker Pro 1.0, and in September 1992, Claris released a cross-platform version for both the Mac and Windows. Except for a few platform-specific functions, the program's features and user interface remained the same.
By 1995, other than ClarisWorks, FileMaker Pro was the only well-performing product in Claris's lineup. In 1998, Apple moved development of some of the other Claris products in-house, dropped most of the rest, and changed Claris's name to FileMaker Inc., followed by a concentrated development of FileMaker alone.
In 2020, FileMaker International Inc. changed its name (back) to Claris International Inc. and announced the Claris Connect workflow software.
Later updates
[edit]Version 4.0, introduced in 1997, added a plug-in architecture much like that of Adobe Photoshop, which enabled third-party developers to add features to FileMaker. A bundled plug-in, the Web Companion, allowed the database to act as a web server. Other plug-ins added features to the interface and enabled FileMaker to serve as an FTP client, perform external file operations, and send messages to remote FileMaker files over the Internet or an intranet.
Version 5 introduced a new file format, which came with the file extension .fp5.
Version 7, released in 2004, introduced a new file format with the extension .fp7, supporting file sizes up to 8 terabytes (an increase from the 2 gigabytes allowed in previous versions). Individual fields could hold up to 4 gigabytes of binary data (container fields) or 2 gigabytes of 2-byte Unicode text per record (up from 64 kilobytes in previous versions). FileMaker's relational model was also expanded, offering multiple tables per file and a graphical relationship editor that displayed and allowed manipulation of related tables in a manner that resembled the entity-relationship diagram format. Accompanying these important changes, FileMaker Inc. also introduced a developer certification program.
In 2005 FileMaker Inc. announced the FileMaker 8 product family, which offered developers an expanded feature set. These included a tabbed interface, script variables, tooltips, enhanced debugging, custom menus, and the ability to copy and paste entire tables and field definitions, scripts, and script steps within and between files. Version 8.5, released in 2006, added an integrated web viewer (with the ability to view such things as shipment tracking information from FedEx and Wikipedia entries) and named layout objects.
FileMaker 9, released on July 10, 2007, introduced a quick-start screen, conditional formatting, fluid layout auto-resizing, hyperlinked pointers into databases, and external SQL links. FileMaker 10 was released on January 5, 2009, before that year's Macworld Conference & Expo, and offered scripts that can be triggered by user actions and a redesigned user interface similar to that of Mac OS X Leopard (10.5) applications.
FileMaker 11, released on March 9, 2010, introduced charting, which was further streamlined in FileMaker 12, released April 4, 2012. That version also added themes, more database templates (so-called 'starter solutions') and simplified creation of iOS databases. FileMaker Go 11 (July 20, 2010) and FileMaker Go 12 for iPhone and iPad (April 4, 2012) allowed only the creation, modification, and deletion of records on these handheld devices, whereas design and schema changes had to be made within the full FileMaker Pro application. FileMaker Go 12 brought with it multitasking, improved media integration, export of data to multiple formats and enhanced container fields.
FileMaker 13, released after the launches of iOS 7 and OS X Mavericks (10.9), first shipped in December 2013. The client and server products were enhanced to support more mobile and web methods of data access. FileMaker Go 13, the parallel iPad–iPhone product, became a single client for both devices, and the Server Admin tool now ran in HTML5, no longer requiring a Java app.
The FileMaker 14 platform released on May 15, 2015.[5] It included FileMaker Pro 14, FileMaker Pro 14 Advanced, FileMaker Server 14 and FileMaker Go 14. This was followed by version 15 in May 2016 and version 16 in May 2017; both including equivalent Pro, Pro Advanced, Server and Go versions.
In late 2016, FileMaker began annually publicizing a software roadmap of incoming features already being worked on, as well as identifying features they are moving away from or may deprecate in the near future.[6]
FileMaker Inc. had always had a hard time describing what FileMaker software was, because it covered a plethora of ground unrelated to databases; user interface, security, rapid application development tools, etc. At their annual developers conference in August 2018, FileMaker Inc. initiated a new marketing program called "Workplace Innovation Platform" to address the problem of its self-described software category.[7]
FileMaker Cloud
[edit]On September 27, 2016, FileMaker Cloud was introduced, including a Linux server (CentOS), which was offered exclusively through the Amazon Marketplace. In November 2019, FileMaker Cloud was reintroduced as a software as a service product offered directly from Claris for FileMaker Pro 18.0.3, using the FileMaker Server Cloud 2.18 service on Amazon servers. Despite this, it was managed by Claris instead of through the Amazon Marketplace, and made use of the new FileMaker ID authentication.
Linux and Docker
[edit]In October 2020, Claris released a Linux version of FileMaker Server, first on CentOS (19.1) then on Ubuntu (19.2).
Version history
[edit]| Date | Version | File Ext | Comment[8] |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1985–04 | FileMaker v1.0 | .fp | Published by Forethought Inc. |
| 1986–08 | FileMaker Plus | .fp | Published by Forethought Inc. |
| 1988–06 | FileMaker 4 | .fp | Published by Nashoba Systems |
| 1988–08 | FileMaker II | .fp | First version to be published by Claris Corporation |
| 1990–10 | FileMaker Pro | .fp | |
| 1992–10 | FileMaker Pro 2 | .fp | Windows version added |
| 1993–08 | FileMaker Pro 2.1 | .fp | |
| 1994–07 | FileMaker Pro Server 2 | .fp | |
| 1995–12 | FileMaker Pro 3 | .fp3 | Relational architecture, TCP/IP networking introduced |
| 1996–01 | FileMaker Pro Server 3 | .fp3 | |
| 1997–09 | FileMaker Pro 4 | .fp4 | Plug-in architecture introduced |
| 1998–05 | FileMaker Pro 4 Developer Edition | .fp4 | Last version to be published by Claris. Aimed at expert/professional FileMaker users. |
| 1999–06 | FileMaker Pro 4.1v2 | .fp4 | First version to be published by FileMaker, Inc.[9] |
| 1999–09 | FileMaker Pro 5 | .fp5 | Introduced a new file format (file extension .fp5) |
| 1999–11 | FileMaker Server 5 | .fp5 | |
| 2001–04 | FileMaker Pro 5.5 | .fp5 | Native support for Mac OS X, Windows 2000, Windows 95/98 and ME. |
| 2001–07 | FileMaker Server 5.5 | .fp5 | Windows 2000, Windows NT, Mac OS X, Mac OS 8.6, and Red Hat Linux. LDAP Support. Red Hat was short–lived and dropped support in the next version. |
| 2002–09 | FileMaker Pro 6* | .fp6 | Last version to support Mac OS 8 and 9 |
| 2004–03 | FileMaker Pro 7 | .fp7 | Multiple tables/file architecture introduced; multiple windows; relationships graph; calc variables; Improved security with individual accounts and passwords; introduced new file format .fp7; Mac version requires Mac OS X. |
| 2005–08 | FileMaker Pro 8* | .fp7 | Scriptable creation of PDF reports;[10] script variables; tabs on layouts |
| 2006–01 | FileMaker Mobile 8 | FileMaker Mobile line discontinued | |
| 2006–07 | FileMaker Pro 8.5* | .fp7 | Mac OS X Universal Binary support, embedded browser (Web Viewer), object names |
| 2007–07 | FileMaker Pro/Server 9* | .fp7 | Native support for the SQL databases MS SQL Server, MySQL, and Oracle. Conditional formatting |
| 2009–01 | FileMaker Pro/Server 10* | .fp7 | Status area now horizontal; script triggering |
| 2010–03 | FileMaker Pro/Server 11* | .fp7 | Charts, snapshot link, filtered portals, and recurring imports |
| 2010–07 | FileMaker Go 1.0 | FileMaker for iOS | |
| 2010–09 | FileMaker Go 1.1 | PDF creation, photo support, import from FileMaker Pro | |
| 2011–04 | FileMaker Go 1.2 | Printing, signature capture, charts, enhanced PDF creation | |
| 2011–09 | FileMaker Pro/Advanced 11.0v4* | .fp7 | Lion compatibility, fully implemented by October 2011 |
| 2012–04 | FileMaker Pro/Advanced 12 | .fmp12 | Integrated themes (Pro/iOS); floating and modal windows; execute SQL; enhanced container field; improved charting; introduced new file format .fmp12 |
| FileMaker Server 12 | 64-bit, faster WAN, progressive backups, rewritten web publishing engine, support for external container storage in files outside of the database | ||
| FileMaker Go 12 | iOS client is now free. Supports the .fmp12 file format. | ||
| 2013–12 | FileMaker Pro/Advanced 13 | .fmp12 | WebDirect and HTML5 features; better mobile app development; enhanced GUI design tools, themes, and behaviors; more dynamic data refreshing, "Hide object when..." layout object option based on calculation, encryption at rest (EAR 256bit AES) data protection, new summary list feature, enhanced ExecuteSQL expressions, perform script on server script step, 256bit SSL client server connection |
| FileMaker Go 13 | Free universal client for iPhones and iPads supports iOS 6 and iOS 7. Supports barcode scanning from the camera. | ||
| FileMaker Server 13 | FileMaker WebDirect, Perform Script on Server, Platform Security; new HTML5 Admin Console replaced the need for Java | ||
| 2015–05 | FileMaker Pro/Advanced 14 | .fmp12 | Script workspace, Button bar, Tooltips in layout mode, Launch Center |
| FileMaker Server 14 | Standby server, FileMaker Pro auto-reconnect, WebDirect support for Android | ||
| FileMaker Go 14 | Improved signature capture, iOS 8-style interface, Video/audio controls, Keyboard control, Rich editing | ||
| 2016–05 | FileMaker Pro/Advanced 15 | .fmp12 | In-Product Updates, Portal In-line Progress Bar, Concealed Edit Box, Script Workspace highlighting and unlimited undo |
| FileMaker Server 15 | External SQL Support extended to DB2 and PostgreSQL, SSL Certificate installation made easier, eliminated shared hosting, Licensing for Teams | ||
| FileMaker Go 15 | iOS SDK, Touch ID and 3D Touch, App Extensions and iBeacons | ||
| 2016–09 | FileMaker Cloud 1.0 | FileMaker Server via Amazon Web Services (AWS) running on CentOS Linux | |
| 2017–05 | FileMaker Pro/Advanced 16 | .fmp12 | Layout Objects window (control layers in layouts), Cards feature (better control of prompts), cURL support added for "Insert from URL" function (HTTP/S methods such as POST/GET), JSON text manipulation functions, data viewer auto calc |
| FileMaker Server 16 | REST-based FileMaker Data API, WebDirect browser support scalability up to 500 concurrent users, PDF generation on server and WebDirect, OAuth 2.0 support (Amazon, Google, Microsoft) at the Security layer | ||
| FileMaker Go 16 | Enhanced signature capture, geofence, plugin compatibility, animations, and transitions | ||
| 2018–05 | FileMaker Pro Advanced 17 | .fmp12 | No more FileMaker Pro without Advanced tools, Pre-made add-on tables to templates, Layout modification tool improvements, sensor support (barometer, GPS etc.), Self-Lookup table for Master-detail layouts, multiple email attachments, new data migration tool (separate application). |
| FileMaker Server 17 | redesigned server admin console with dashboard, new Admin API, new Data API completely re-written from v16. | ||
| FileMaker Go 17 | FileMaker Go push notifications, auto-complete, drag and drop, improved iOS app SDK | ||
| 2019-05-22 | FileMaker Pro Advanced 18 | .fmp12 | New user interface for importing data, open specific app at launch, file-based script steps, script error logging, while calculation function, SetRecursion calculation function, new managed security access privilege, new manage security dialog box, plug-in security enhancements, default file access protection. |
| FileMaker Server 18 | Page-Level Locking enables multiple simultaneous read operations on the same file, Startup Restoration automatically restores files after a crash, FileMaker Server Admin Console enhancements, server monitoring enhancements, FileMaker Data API enhancements, FileMaker Admin API is now standard, Spanish language support. Page-level locking can be enabled or disabled only together with startup restoration. | ||
| FileMaker Go 18 | Open specific app at launch, append to existing PDF, enhanced barcode support. | ||
| 2020-05-20 | FileMaker 19 (Pro, Server, Go) | .fmp12 | JavaScript WebViewer Integration, FileMaker Add-Ons (including JavaScript), supports Apple's Dark/Light modes, Configure Machine Learning Models using CoreML, NFC scanning support, Siri Shortcuts, Card Windows now supported in WebDirect, Claris Marketplace, Print Page Numbers, Solution Upgrade Tool, At Start Open File, Minimum version requirement on live hosted files, Claris ID can automatically be logged in each time, Convert to/from FileMaker Paths, On-premise Server on CentOS, in addition, to already supported Windows Server & macOS, and Dates support Common Era formatting. No longer supports Runtimes, 32-bit apps, or Windows 7. Startup Restoration and page-level locking remain but are disabled by default probably because of a lot of problems in version 18 with it. |
| 2020-10-28 | FileMaker Server 19 for Linux, 19.1.2 stability update | .fmp12 | First production release of FileMaker Server on standalone Linux since the short-lived v5.5 in 2001. The referenced Linux is CentOS Linux 7.8. Standalone Linux Server v19 can be hosted in the cloud and will replace FileMaker Cloud for AWS (formerly FileMaker Cloud 1.x) which goes End of Life on Jan. 1, 2022. Note that FileMaker Cloud is an entirely different product. FileMaker Server 19.1.2 replaces page-level locking and startup restoration features with a much more stable shared lock mechanism. |
| 2020 | FileMaker Pro 19.1.2 | .fmp12 | JavaScript Enabled Add-Ons, Preview improvements, AD FS support, Get(SystemLocaleElements), Get(FileLocaleElements), improved communication between JavaScript in Webview and FileMaker scripting. |
| 2020-10 | FileMaker Pro 19.1.3 | .fmp12 | New options for FMP URLs |
| 2020-12 | FileMaker Pro 19.2.1 | .fmp12 | Plugin control improvements |
| 2021-03 | FileMaker Pro 19.2.2 | .fmp12 | Preview Enhancements, Get(InstalledFMPPluginsAsJSON), Security improvements |
| 2021-07 | FileMaker Pro 19.3.2 | .fmp12 | Apple Silicon support, improved Microsoft Edge WebView2 control, and few other bug fixes |
| 2021-11 | FileMaker Pro 19.4.1 | .fmp12 | Shortcuts for Siri voice commands, Customizable OAuth identity provider support, new session identifier, Faster SQL queries, FileMaker_BaseTableFields, Data API improvements |
| 2021-12 | FileMaker Pro 19.4.2 | .fmp12 | SSL certificate improvements and some general bug fixes. |
| 2022-05 | FileMaker Pro 19.5.1 | .fmp12 | Security improvements and OpenSSL upgraded to 1.1.1n, some JSON function updates and ReadQRCode function, improved Save a copy as XML, tab order works pasting layouts as expected, performance improvements, some GUI improvements. |
| 2022-07 | FileMaker Pro and Server 19.5.2 released | .fmp12 | Improved Replace Field Contents, Quote function modified to handle line feeds same as carriage returns. |
| 2022-08 | FileMaker Pro 19.5.3 released | .fmp12 | Open SSL upgraded to version 1.1.q. and some bug fixes. |
| 2022-09 | FileMaker Pro and Server 19.5.4 released | .fmp12 | Quick start removed, in-product notifications |
| 2022-12 | FileMaker Pro and Server 19.6.1 released | .fmp12 | Script Transactions, Support Sign in with Apple, Clean up cache files from Preferences dialog, Set User Directory script step, Get ( CurrentTimeUTCMicroseconds ) calculation function, Add-on creation from Layout object tree, Controls the enablement of context menu within the interactive container fields, Administrator roles, Log viewer improvements, Supports a second additional database folder, Support Clone Only backup option to clone the database, Restrict access to Admin Console from specified IP addresses, Admin API improvements, WebDirect CSS layout caching, and list view behavior improvements, NodeJS upgrade to version 16.16, OpenSSL upgrade to version 3.0.7, ChartDirector upgrade to version 7. |
| 2023-04-25 | Claris FileMaker 2023 (20)[11] | .fmp12 | OnWindowTransaction trigger, Send Mail OAuth 2.0, PSOS with Callback, Layout Calculations |
| 2024-06-04 | Claris FileMaker 2024 (21)[12] | .fmp12 | New AI Script Steps, Configure Local Notifications in FileMaker Pro, WebRTC for Web Viewers, PSOS Callback State Option, Execute Data API Write Operations, Open Quickly Improvements |
* (*) indicates both FileMaker Pro/FileMaker Pro Advanced (Developer Edition in v4-6) or FileMaker Server/FileMaker Server Advanced
FileMaker files are compatible between Mac and Windows. File type extensions are:
- .fm since FileMaker Pro 2.0
- .fp3 since FileMaker Pro 3.0
- .fp5 since FileMaker Pro 5.0 (including 5, 5.5, 6.0)
- .fp7 since FileMaker Pro 7.0 (including 7, 8, 8.5, 9, 10, 11 and FileMaker Go 1.0)
- .fmp12 since FileMaker Pro 12 (including 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, FileMaker 2023, and FileMaker 2024)
Self-running applications (runtime, kiosk mode) are platform-specific only.
Internationalization and localization
[edit]FileMaker is available in worldwide English, Simplified Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Brazilian Portuguese, Spanish, and Swedish.
There are also specific versions of FileMaker for users of Central European, Indian and Middle Eastern languages. These versions offer spellchecking, data entry, sorting and printing options for languages of the respective region. They also contain localized templates and localized instant web publishing.
The Central European version FileMaker includes English, Russian, Polish, Czech and Turkish interfaces. There are customized templates for Russian, Polish, Czech, Turkish. In addition Russian, Greek, Estonian, Lithuanian, Latvian, Serbian, Bulgarian and Hungarian are supported to varying degrees.
The version intended for Southeast Asian languages has only an English user interface, but supports Indic-language data entry, sorting and indexing in Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Panjabi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam.
Similarly, the Middle Eastern version has only English and French user interfaces, but with its option to change the text direction to right-to-left, it does support Arabic and Hebrew data entry.
Scripting
[edit]
FileMaker Pro and FileMaker Pro Advanced include scripting capabilities and many built-in functions for automation of common tasks and complex calculations. Numerous steps are available for navigation, conditional execution of script steps, editing records, and other utilities. FileMaker Pro Advanced provides a script debugger which allows the developer to set break points, monitor data values and step through script lines.
FileMaker 13 introduced a script that more deeply queries container field document metadata.
Dynamic Markup Language
[edit]The FileMaker Dynamic Markup Language or FDML was a markup language used in the earlier versions of FileMaker introduced in 1998. FDML is also often referred to as Claris Dynamic Markup Language or CDML, named after its former company Claris. FDML was an extension of HTML that used special tags, such as [FMP-Record][/FMP-Record] to display FileMaker data on Web pages. FileMaker officially dropped support for FDML in 2004.[citation needed]
SQL and ODBC support
[edit]Since version 9, FileMaker has had the ability to connect to a number of SQL databases without resorting to using SQL, including MySQL, SQL Server, and Oracle. This requires installation of the SQL database ODBC driver (in many cases a third-party license per client driver) to connect to a SQL database. Through Extended SQL Services (ESS), SQL databases can be used as data sources in FileMaker's relationship graph, thus allowing the developer to create new layouts based on the SQL database; create, edit, and delete SQL records via FileMaker layouts and functions; and reference SQL fields in FileMaker calculations and script steps. It is a cross-platform relational database application.
Versions from FileMaker Pro 5.5 onwards also have an ODBC interface.
FileMaker 12 introduced a new function, ExecuteSQL, which allows the user to perform an SQL query against the FileMaker database to retrieve data, but does not allow data modification or deletion, or schema changes.[13]
FileMaker allows non-numeric characters to be stored in its "numeric" field type unless the field is specifically marked as strictly "numeric".
Through a third party, Actual Technologies, FileMaker 15 and forward, also, support ODBC connectivity to IBM I 7.3 (AS/400), IBM Db2 11.1, and PostgreSQL 9.6.12. Using the Actual Adapter, these ODBC connections can also make ESS connections and be used as sources in the Relationship Graph.
Integration
[edit] |
FileMaker 16 provides integrations via cURL, JSON, REST-based FileMaker Data API support. Tableau Web Data Connector is offered to visualize FileMaker data. The REST-based API license is a free trial that expired September 27, 2018. FileMaker 17 offers a permanent REST-based Data API. Standard licensing include 2 GB of outbound data per user per month. Container data does not count towards this limit, and inbound Data API data transfer is unlimited. FileMaker 19 for Linux and FileMaker Cloud provide a OData gateway, allowing JSON and XML output (Atom).
In popular culture
[edit]In Julio Torres's 2023 film Problemista, a major story element is the insistence by the character Elizabeth (Tilda Swinton) that her husband's art be catalogued using FileMaker Pro, "the Cadillac of archival software," and her refusal to consider alternatives like Google Sheets. The character Alejandro (Torres) falsely claims familiarity with FileMaker Pro with the hope that Elizabeth will sponsor his work visa.[14][15]
See also
[edit]- Bento, a simplified personal database application from FileMaker Inc. (discontinued mid-2013)
References
[edit]- ^ a b Glenn Koenig (August 7, 2015). "The Origin of FileMaker". Retrieved August 7, 2015.
- ^ "Nashoba Systems and the Early Days of FileMaker Pro". Briandunning.com. Retrieved October 10, 2011.
- ^ Warner, Edward (June 15, 1987). "Leading Edge Combines Its Hardware, Software Support". InfoWorld. p. 31. Retrieved December 31, 2024.
- ^ Keefe, Patricia (August 3, 1987). "Microsoft buys Forethought". Computerworld. p. 81. Retrieved November 1, 2024.
- ^ "FileMaker Release History". Retrieved January 18, 2021.
- ^ "FileMaker Shares Their Product Roadmap". Retrieved May 31, 2024.
- ^ Woodhouse, Stuart (November 10, 2018). "Workplace Innovation Platform". digitalfusion. Archived from the original on January 6, 2024. Retrieved January 6, 2024.
- ^ Mike Weber (September 15, 2008). "FileMaker History". Low End Mac. Retrieved October 10, 2011.
- ^ "Custhelp.com". Filemaker.custhelp.com. November 19, 2010. Archived from the original on June 30, 2012. Retrieved October 10, 2011.
- ^ Cohen, Dennis R. (2006). FileMaker Pro 8.5 Bible. John Wiley & Sons. p. 354. ISBN 9780470109618.
- ^ "FileMaker Pro Release Notes". Claris. April 2023. Archived from the original on October 24, 2023. Retrieved October 24, 2023.
- ^ "FileMaker Pro Release Notes". Claris. June 2024. Retrieved June 4, 2024.
- ^ "ExecuteSQL". Filemaker.com. Retrieved December 13, 2013.
- ^ Fear, David (March 1, 2024). "'Problemista' Reminds You Why Tilda Swinton Is God". Rolling Stone. Penske Media Corporation. Retrieved March 12, 2024.
- ^ Martínez, A (March 4, 2024). "The new film 'Problemista' follows the issues of a man trying not to lose his visa". Morning Edition. National Public Radio. Retrieved March 12, 2024.
External links
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FileMaker
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Overview
Description and Purpose
FileMaker is a cross-platform relational database management system (RDBMS) developed by Claris International, a wholly owned subsidiary of Apple Inc.[11] As a low-code platform, its core purpose is to empower non-developers—such as business professionals, educators, and individuals—to create custom databases, interactive forms, detailed reports, and automated workflows tailored to specific needs in business operations, educational environments, and personal projects.[1] This accessibility stems from its design philosophy, which prioritizes rapid application development without requiring deep programming expertise.[12] At its foundation, FileMaker employs relational data modeling to structure information across interconnected tables, enabling efficient data organization, retrieval, and analysis. Users leverage a intuitive drag-and-drop interface to design layouts for data presentation and interaction, complemented by built-in tools for secure data entry, validation, and error prevention.[1] These elements combine to form a versatile environment for building scalable solutions that handle complex datasets while maintaining simplicity for end-users.[6] With roots in the original FileMaker Pro application launched in 1985, the platform has evolved significantly from a desktop-focused tool to a comprehensive full-stack development environment supporting web, mobile, and cloud deployments.[8] The 2025 release marks a pivotal advancement with integrated AI-assisted features, such as natural language processing for query generation, document text extraction, and semantic search using vector embeddings, allowing users to derive insights from data more intuitively.[13] Technically, FileMaker accommodates up to 256 million fields across the entire database file and supports theoretically unlimited records, limited primarily by available disk space and system resources.[14]Platforms and Deployment Options
FileMaker Pro, the primary development and runtime application, supports Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise editions, as well as macOS Sonoma 14 and Sequoia 15.[15] For mobile access, FileMaker Go enables deployment on iOS and iPadOS devices with a minimum of 2 GB RAM and a 2.39 GHz hexa-core 64-bit CPU, supporting offline data entry and synchronization when connectivity is restored.[15] Web-based access is provided through FileMaker WebDirect, compatible with modern web browsers across platforms.[1] Server editions extend support to Linux, including Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and 24.04 LTS, with Docker containerization available since version 16 in 2016 for streamlined Linux deployments.[16] Compatibility with ARM-based Apple Silicon processors has been native since FileMaker Pro 19.3.2 in 2021, allowing optimized performance on modern Mac hardware without emulation.[17] Deployment options for FileMaker applications include local single-user mode for standalone use on desktops or mobiles, ideal for individual or offline scenarios.[1] Multi-user client-server architecture leverages FileMaker Server, which hosts databases for concurrent access and supports up to hundreds of simultaneous connections depending on hardware and configuration.[15] Cloud hosting is facilitated through FileMaker Cloud, which in its 2025 release (version 2.22) introduces automatic upgrades during maintenance windows to ensure seamless updates without downtime.[18] This version requires FileMaker Pro 2023 or newer and FileMaker Go 2024 or later for compatibility.[19] Hardware requirements emphasize reliability for production use: FileMaker Pro recommends at least 8 GB RAM and an Intel Core i5 or equivalent Apple Silicon processor, with 512 GB SSD storage advised for macOS installations.[20] FileMaker Server specifies a minimum of 8 GB RAM, scaling to 16 GB or more for high-load environments, and supports Windows Server 2019/2022, macOS 14/15, or Ubuntu LTS distributions.[21] The 2025 updates enhance hybrid cloud and on-premise deployments, allowing flexible AI model hosting on local infrastructure for optimized performance, privacy, and control via the FileMaker Server Admin Console.[22] These features enable organizations to balance data integration needs with deployment security, such as syncing mobile changes to central databases.[23]History
Origins and Early Development
FileMaker originated as a database management tool known as Nutshell, developed by Nashoba Systems, a small software company based in Concord, Massachusetts, and released in 1984 for MS-DOS systems.[24] Designed initially as a flat-file database, Nutshell featured variable-length fields, indexed word searches, and a menu-driven interface, making it suitable for basic data organization tasks on IBM PC-compatibles; it was distributed by Leading Edge Model D computers.[24] In 1985, Nashoba partnered with Forethought Inc.—the creators of the presentation software that would become Microsoft PowerPoint—to adapt and release an enhanced version for the Apple Macintosh, renaming it FileMaker to leverage the Mac's graphical capabilities.[25] This collaboration marked the product's shift toward a more user-friendly, forms-based graphical user interface (GUI) built on Nutshell's core data engine, targeting non-technical users such as small business owners for tasks like contact management and inventory tracking.[26] Early sales were often bundled with Apple hardware to promote adoption among Macintosh users seeking accessible database solutions.[26] The initial Macintosh release, FileMaker I in April 1985, was a Mac-only flat-file database that emphasized ease of use with drag-and-drop layout design and support for text, number, date, and calculation fields, positioning it as a simpler alternative to more complex tools like dBase or Paradox.[24] By 1988, following Nashoba's acquisition by Apple's Claris subsidiary in 1988, the product evolved into FileMaker II, which introduced basic relational linking between multiple files, allowing users to connect data across databases without advanced programming knowledge.[26] This version also added foundational scripting capabilities for automating repetitive tasks, such as data entry or report generation, further enhancing its appeal for small business workflows.[27] FileMaker II maintained the Mac-exclusive focus but included multi-user support for shared access, reflecting growing demand for collaborative tools in professional settings.[24] The transition to cross-platform compatibility began with FileMaker Pro 1.0 in 1990, released under the Claris banner as a stabilized iteration on the Macintosh while laying groundwork for Windows integration in subsequent updates.[26] This version refined the relational model with improved file linking and introduced previews of ODBC connectivity for external data exchange, enabling basic integration with other systems like spreadsheets.[28] Version 2.0, released in 1992, incorporated AppleEvents for deeper Macintosh system integration, such as automating interactions with other applications via inter-process communication.[26] Throughout its early development, FileMaker was marketed as an intuitive, low-code solution for small businesses, distinguishing itself through visual design tools and minimal setup requirements compared to command-line-heavy competitors.[25]Acquisition by Claris and Rebranding
In 1987, Apple formed Claris Corporation as a wholly owned subsidiary to develop and market software applications separately from its hardware business.[8] The following year, in August 1988, Claris acquired Nashoba Systems, gaining control of the FileMaker database software, which had been developed for the Macintosh in 1985.[9] Claris quickly rebranded the product as FileMaker II to align with its naming conventions for other applications, positioning it as a flagship offering targeted at small businesses and individual users for easy database creation and management.[26] By the mid-1990s, FileMaker had become Claris's most successful product amid declining sales for its other software lines, prompting a strategic refocus. In January 1998, Claris announced it would discontinue or return most non-FileMaker products to Apple, lay off around 300 employees, and rename itself FileMaker, Inc. to emphasize its core database platform.[29] This restructuring streamlined operations under Apple's ownership while allowing FileMaker, Inc. to operate with greater autonomy as a subsidiary dedicated to enhancing the product's cross-platform capabilities and user accessibility.[30] FileMaker, Inc. continued as an Apple subsidiary through the 2000s, deepening integration with the Apple ecosystem, exemplified by the 2010 launch of FileMaker Go, a mobile app that enabled users to access and interact with FileMaker databases on iPhone and iPad devices shortly after the iPad's debut.[31] This move expanded the platform's reach into mobile enterprise applications, supporting features like offline data access and synchronization with desktop versions. Under Apple's stewardship, the company shifted toward enterprise-grade enhancements, including improved security and scalability, while maintaining consistent profitability for over 80 consecutive quarters by the late 2010s.[8] In August 2019, FileMaker, Inc. rebranded back to Claris International, Inc., reviving the original name to signal a broader vision beyond the FileMaker product line, including the acquisition of Stamplay to develop Claris Connect, a no-code integration platform for connecting custom apps with third-party services.[8] This rebranding underscored Claris's evolution into a workplace innovation platform, with FileMaker remaining central but complemented by tools for automation and data connectivity, all while leveraging Apple's resources for ongoing development.[32]Major Updates and Transitions
FileMaker underwent significant technological advancements starting in the early 2000s, with version 7 (2004) introducing full Unicode support, enabling the handling of international characters and multilingual data storage without prior limitations on text encoding.[33] This shift marked a key transition toward global usability, allowing developers to build applications for diverse linguistic environments. Building on this, version 8 (2005) enhanced web publishing capabilities through updates to Instant Web Publishing in FileMaker Server Advanced, providing more robust options for sharing database content via web browsers and integrating with external data sources like XML.[34] Platform expansions continued with version 11 (2010), which integrated mobile support via FileMaker Go for iOS devices, enabling users to access and interact with FileMaker databases directly on iPhones and iPads without custom app development. This move democratized mobile deployment, bridging desktop and handheld workflows for field-based applications. In 2016, Claris launched FileMaker Cloud for AWS, introducing cloud-hosted server options that simplified deployment and scaling without on-premises hardware, leveraging Amazon's infrastructure for reliable, managed hosting. Version 19 (2020) added Linux support for FileMaker Server, allowing deployments on CentOS and later Ubuntu distributions, which facilitated integration with enterprise IT environments favoring open-source operating systems. Docker support for containerized deployments was later enhanced in subsequent releases, culminating in 2025 with optimizations for AI workloads, enabling scalable, isolated environments for machine learning integrations on Ubuntu 24.04.[16] Recent developments reflect a strategic pivot toward low-code/no-code paradigms for enterprise applications, amplified by the 2023 rebranding to Claris FileMaker, which unified the platform with tools like Claris Connect and Studio for seamless integrations across apps and services.[35] Version 19 (2020) introduced JavaScript integration, permitting developers to embed and execute JS libraries within web viewers for dynamic, web-like interactivity in custom apps.[36] Following Apple's 2019 re-establishment of Claris as a focused subsidiary, updates emphasized privacy enhancements, such as improved data encryption and compliance with evolving regulations like GDPR, aligning with Apple's ecosystem priorities.[36] The 2025 release (version 22) advances AI capabilities with features like natural language querying for finds and SQL operations, allowing users to perform complex searches via conversational prompts processed by integrated AI models.[37] JSON handling was upgraded for more efficient parsing and manipulation, supporting advanced data interchange in API-driven workflows. Additionally, collapsible script workspaces improve code organization by enabling folding of script sections, enhancing developer productivity in large projects. FileMaker Cloud 2025, with its auto-upgrade rollout starting November 6, 2025, incorporates these features alongside bolstered security and performance for cloud-based enterprise solutions.[19]Version History
FileMaker has seen over 20 major releases since its inception as a commercial product in 1990, evolving from a Macintosh-only database to a cross-platform low-code application development tool with advanced AI capabilities by 2025.[24][13] The following table summarizes key versions, focusing on release dates, primary new features, and notable notes such as platform expansions or support timelines.| Version | Release Date | Key Features | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| FileMaker Pro 1.0 | October 1990 | Forms-based GUI for database management. | Macintosh-only; standardized naming under Claris.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 2.0 | October 1992 | Multiplatform support with shared file format (.fm). | Added Windows compatibility, enabling cross-platform use.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 3.0 | December 1995 | Relational database capabilities; introduced scripting for automation; new .fp3 file format. | Enhanced data relationships and task automation.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 4.0 | September 1997 | Plug-in architecture for extensibility; Web Companion for web publishing. | Supported early web integration.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 5.0 | September 1999 | ODBC/JDBC support for external data connectivity; MS Office-style toolbar; .fp5 file format. | Improved interoperability with other databases.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 6.0 | September 2002 | Enhanced stability and performance optimizations. | Minor update focused on reliability.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 7.0 | May 2004 | Multiple tables per file; visual relationships graph; .fp7 file format. | Marked shift to true relational model.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 8.0 | August 2005 | PDF report generation; script variables; tab controls on layouts. | Added advanced reporting and UI flexibility.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 9.0 | July 2007 | Native SQL database engine; conditional formatting; Web Viewer for embedding web content. | Boosted query performance and visual customization.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 10.0 | January 2009 | Script triggers for event-based automation; saved finds; customizable status toolbar. | Introduced reactive scripting.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 11.0 | March 2010 | Interactive charts and Quick Reports; recurring imports; Inspector panel for design. | Enhanced data visualization and import workflows.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 12.0 | April 2012 | Layout themes; container fields for media; iOS app design tools; WebDirect for browser access. | Expanded mobile and web deployment.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 13.0 | December 2013 | Custom themes and slide controls; database encryption at rest. | Improved security and UI customization.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 14.0 | May 2015 | Script Workspace for organized scripting; button bars; top/bottom navigation parts. | Streamlined development interface.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 15.0 | May 2016 | In-product updates; undo/redo for scripts; External SQL Data Source (ESS) adapter enhancements. | Added maintenance and error-handling tools.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 16.0 | May 2017 | cURL options for web services; JSON parsing functions; REST API via FileMaker Data API. | Enabled modern API integrations.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 17.0 | May 2018 | Master-detail layouts; default field values; multiple file attachments in emails. | Simplified complex UI and file handling.[24] |
| FileMaker Pro 18.0 | May 22, 2019 | Add-on table relationships; "Perform Script by Name" step; improved UI and security options like variable-based encryption. | Enhanced scripting flexibility and Japanese era support (Reiwa).[38] |
| FileMaker Pro 19.0 | May 20, 2020 | Execute FileMaker Data API script step; enhanced cURL for Insert from URL; mobile-optimized features like drag-and-drop charts. | Introduced AI-assisted data migration and Claris branding transition; support ended December 19, 2024.[39][40] |
| FileMaker 2023 (20.0) | April 25, 2023 | Increased scalability for larger datasets; enhanced security with usage tracking; Admin Console improvements. | Focused on enterprise reliability; version 20.3.2 released February 2024.[35][37] |
| FileMaker 2024 (21.0) | June 4, 2024 | Native semantic search; initial AI integrations for natural language queries; improved server performance. | Added AI-driven data analysis tools; FileMaker Go 2024 with better offline sync; support until June 2026.[41][42] |
| FileMaker 2025 (22.0) | July 8, 2025 | Built-in AI script steps and functions (e.g., prompt-based analysis, RAG, LLM integration); PDF extraction; natural language search; own AI Model Server support. | Advanced AI tools like turning questions into queries; version 22.0.2 (bug fixes) in August 2025; improved FileMaker Go offline capabilities; support until July 2027.[13][16][42] |
Core Features
Database Creation and Management
FileMaker Pro provides robust tools for creating and managing relational databases through its Manage Database dialog, accessible via the File menu. This interface allows users to define tables, which serve as the foundational structures for organizing data, and to specify fields within those tables. Fields can be configured in various types, including text for alphanumeric data, number for numeric values, date for calendar entries, and container for storing files such as images or documents.[43] Relationships between tables are established in the Relationships tab of the Manage Database dialog, enabling one-to-many connections—such as a single customer linked to multiple orders—via primary and foreign keys, or many-to-many relationships through intermediate join tables that use key fields to bridge disparate data sets.[44][45] Data management in FileMaker emphasizes import and export capabilities to facilitate integration with external systems. Users can import data from formats like CSV, XML, and ODBC sources directly into existing tables, mapping fields to ensure accurate population of records. Exporting is similarly flexible, allowing data to be output in CSV, XML, or via ODBC for use in other applications, with options to select specific fields and records. To maintain data integrity, FileMaker supports validation rules at the field level, such as marking fields as required to prevent null entries or using calculation-based validation, for example, ensuring a total field computes correctly with functions like Sum on related numeric fields. Indexing options further enhance performance by creating searchable lists of field values, speeding up queries and relationship joins, though they increase file size.[46][47][48] Key concepts in database management include portals, which are layout objects that display and allow editing of related records from another table in a tabular format, providing a dynamic view of linked data without navigating away from the current record. Value lists streamline data entry by populating dropdown menus or checkboxes with predefined or dynamic options drawn from fields or related tables, reducing errors and ensuring consistency. For batch operations, such as performing find-and-replace across multiple records, FileMaker employs script steps to automate these tasks efficiently on large datasets. Calculated fields, defined in the Fields tab, derive values using logical functions like If for conditional outcomes or Case for multi-condition evaluations, with text fields supporting up to nearly 10 million characters per repetition, limited primarily by available memory.[49][50][51][52][53][54]User Interface Design
FileMaker's user interface design capabilities center on the Layout mode, where developers can create custom interfaces using a drag-and-drop approach to place and arrange objects such as fields, buttons, tabs, portals, and web viewers.[55] This mode allows for intuitive construction of forms, lists, and reports tailored to user needs, with objects automatically linking to underlying database fields for seamless data display and interaction.[55] Themes provide a foundation for consistent styling across layouts, consisting of predefined or custom collections of styles that define colors, fonts, borders, and other attributes for objects, parts, and backgrounds.[56] Examples include the Minimalist theme for clean, modern appearances and the Touch theme optimized for mobile interactions, which apply auto-styling to ensure professional aesthetics without manual adjustments for every element.[55] Developers manage themes via the File menu > Manage > Themes dialog, where predefined themes (enclosed in brackets) can be duplicated, renamed, or set as defaults for new layouts, supporting up to layouts limited only by file size—practically allowing over 100 per file.[57][14] Layout parts—such as header, body, and footer—structure the interface for different views, with headers and footers repeating on each page or screen for reports, while the body houses primary content like data fields and interactive elements.[58] Merge fields enable dynamic text insertion, combining static labels with field values or calculations to generate personalized content, such as addressed letters or variable summaries. Conditional formatting enhances interactivity by altering object appearance—such as text color or icon fill—based on field values or formulas, evaluated top-to-bottom without modifying data.[59] For instance, a field might turn red if its value falls below a threshold, using the Inspector's Format > Conditional menu to define rules like "Value is empty" or custom calculations.[59] Responsive design supports mobile adaptation through adaptive layouts and auto-resize options, ensuring objects scale appropriately across devices like desktops and iOS, with dynamic guides aiding precise alignment.[55] Tooltips add contextual help by displaying hover-over text or calculated messages on objects, configured in the Inspector's Position tab for static or dynamic content, improving usability without cluttering the interface.[60] In the 2025 release, enhancements include improved layout group management for better organization during design and a modernized macOS interface for smoother editing workflows.[61]Portals
Portals in FileMaker are layout objects that display related records from another table or, in some cases, from the current table (a self-referential portal showing records from the same table as the layout). When a portal is configured to show records from a related table occurrence, the Portal Setup dialog allows defining a fixed sort order and filters for the displayed records. However, when a portal shows records from the Current Table (often used for list-detail views or self-joins), the sort and filter options in the Portal Setup dialog are disabled. This is standard behavior: such portals display records in the order of the current found set (or creation order if unsorted), without independent portal-level sorting.Dynamic Sorting Workaround for Current Table Portals
To enable dynamic or user-clickable sorting (e.g., clicking column headers to sort ascending/descending by different fields):- In the table, create an unstored calculation field (e.g.,
zz_PortalSortKey, result type Text) that dynamically computes a sort value based on a global variable (often JSON-stored field name and direction):
Ensure the calculation is unstored.Let([ sortJSON = $$PortalSort; sortField = JSONGetElement(sortJSON; "field"); direction = JSONGetElement(sortJSON; "direction"); rawValue = GetField(sortField) ]; Case( direction = "Descending"; "Z" & rawValue; rawValue ) ) - Create a script triggered by column header buttons that updates a global variable
$$PortalSortwith JSON (e.g., {"field": "Table::FieldName", "direction": "Ascending"}), then performs:Sort Records [Restore; With dialog: Off] // Sort by zz_PortalSortKey Ascending Refresh Window [Flush cached join results]
Scripting and Automation
FileMaker's scripting capabilities enable developers to automate repetitive tasks, implement business logic, and create dynamic workflows within custom applications. The core of this functionality is the Script Workspace, a unified interface for creating, editing, and organizing scripts using a comprehensive set of over 150 script steps that cover actions such as data manipulation, navigation, and control flow.[62][63] Scripts are defined at the file level and can be invoked from buttons, menus, or triggers across layouts, allowing for modular and reusable automation. Common script steps include Set Field, which updates field values without requiring the field to be visible on the current layout; Loop, which repeats a sequence of steps until an exit condition is met; and If/Else constructs, which execute conditional branches based on evaluated criteria.[64] Script triggers provide event-driven automation, executing predefined scripts in response to user interactions or system events. For instance, the onRecordLoad trigger runs a script when a record is loaded into the active window, useful for populating related data or validating entries, while onLayoutEnter activates upon switching to a specific layout, enabling setup actions like hiding sensitive fields. These triggers integrate briefly with user interface design by responding to layout and record changes, enhancing interactivity without manual intervention. Developers can attach triggers to layouts, fields, or objects, supporting both script execution and parameter passing for customized behavior. Advanced scripting features extend automation to server-side processing and robust error management. The Perform Script on Server step allows scripts to execute on FileMaker Server or FileMaker Cloud, offloading intensive tasks from clients to improve scalability and performance in multi-user environments, such as batch data imports or report generation.[65] Error handling is facilitated by the Get(LastError) function, which returns a numeric code for the most recent script step error, enabling developers to implement try-catch-like logic with Set Error Capture to suppress dialog warnings and log issues programmatically.[66] Scripting supports recursion through custom functions and external calls via the Perform Script step, which invokes other scripts by name or parameter, including those in hosted files or via APIs.[67] In FileMaker version 22, enhancements to JSONSetElement improved performance for API automation by allowing efficient creation and modification of JSON structures in variables, streamlining integrations with web services.[68] Custom functions complement scripting by allowing user-defined calculations with parameters, callable from scripts, fields, or other functions, and supporting recursion for tasks like tree traversals or iterative computations up to a 50,000-iteration limit. Debugging is supported through the integrated Script Debugger, which offers step-through execution, pausing at breakpoints, and inspection of variables and script states to troubleshoot complex automations.[69] The 2025 release of FileMaker introduces enhancements for scripting efficiency and AI-driven automation. Collapsible script groups in the Script Workspace allow developers to fold and expand sections of code, such as nested If/Else or Loop blocks, improving navigation and focus in lengthy scripts.[21] AI-script generation is enabled via the new Generate Response from Model script step, which sends natural language prompts to large language models and receives generated text, facilitating the conversion of descriptive requests into executable script steps or automation logic, such as dynamically building find requests from user queries.[70][71] This feature bridges conceptual automation needs with code implementation, reducing development time for AI-assisted workflows.[13]Data Integration and SQL Support
FileMaker provides robust data integration capabilities through ODBC and JDBC standards, allowing it to function both as a client accessing external databases and as a server exposing its own data to other applications. As a client, FileMaker Pro can import data from external sources such as MySQL, Oracle, and SQL Server using ODBC drivers, establishing live, two-way connections via External SQL Data Sources (ESS). This enables real-time querying, data entry, and relationship building between FileMaker tables and external SQL tables without duplicating data. As a server, FileMaker Server shares hosted databases via ODBC/JDBC, permitting external applications to query FileMaker data using standard SQL statements. The ODBC and JDBC drivers support SQL-92 entry-level conformance, including core features like SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE, along with some intermediate SQL-92 elements such as Unicode character support and basic joins.[72][73][74][75] To integrate external data, developers define External Data Sources in FileMaker Pro by specifying a DSN (Data Source Name), selecting tables, and creating table occurrences that link to native FileMaker files. This setup supports multi-file relationships that emulate SQL joins, allowing seamless navigation across datasets as if they were unified. For example, a FileMaker solution can relate local records to live Oracle tables for inventory management, pulling in supplier data dynamically. ESS compatibility extends to over 100 ODBC drivers from vendors like Microsoft, Oracle, and third-party providers, facilitating connections to diverse systems including cloud-based SQL databases. Supplemental fields can be added to external tables for calculations or validations, enhancing data usability within FileMaker layouts.[76][77][78] SQL querying within FileMaker is powered by the ExecuteSQL function, introduced in version 12, which executes SELECT statements against FileMaker tables or external ODBC sources without relying on relationships or layouts. This function supports dynamic parameters for secure, injection-resistant queries and handles large result sets efficiently, often used to generate virtual lists for displaying thousands of records in portals or reports. For instance, ExecuteSQL can aggregate sales data across tables with clauses like GROUP BY and HAVING, returning results as text or value lists. It adheres to SQL-92 syntax for dates and times but limits non-SELECT operations when targeting FileMaker data directly. In version 21.1, the ExecuteSQLe variant added error handling, returning detailed diagnostics for failed queries. Full SQL-92 subset support, including enhanced conformance, was solidified in version 13 (2014), enabling broader interoperability.[79][80][81][82] For modern web-based integration, FileMaker leverages the Insert from URL script step with cURL options to interact with REST APIs, sending HTTP requests and receiving responses in formats like JSON or XML. This allows posting data to services such as Salesforce or Google APIs and importing results directly into fields or variables. JSON handling is facilitated by built-in functions like JSONGetElement, JSONSetElement, and JSONListKeys, which parse, modify, and validate JSON structures using paths for nested access (e.g., "data.items[0].name"). These functions support common operations like array manipulation and object merging, essential for API-driven workflows. In FileMaker 2025, JSON parsing performance was significantly improved with the new JSONParse function, which creates a native, efficient structure for rapid querying and reduces processing time for large payloads by up to 10x in benchmarks. Additionally, the JSONParsedState function provides metadata on parse states, aiding debugging.[83][84][85][86] FileMaker 2025 introduced AI-optimized SQL features, including the Perform SQL Query by Natural Language script step, which generates and executes SQL queries from plain-English descriptions, streamlining integration for non-experts. The SQL engine was upgraded with commands like INTERVAL for date arithmetic and ALTER TABLE for renaming elements, expanding support for complex queries against external sources. These enhancements build on ESS to enable AI-assisted data pulls from diverse SQL databases, improving efficiency in hybrid environments.[87][71][88]Advanced Capabilities
Internationalization and Localization
FileMaker has provided comprehensive internationalization support since the release of FileMaker Pro 7 in 2004, when it became a fully Unicode-aware application, enabling the storage and manipulation of text in virtually any language supported by the operating system.[33] This Unicode implementation also handles double-byte characters, such as those used in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean (CJK) scripts, allowing seamless data entry and display without encoding conflicts.[89] The platform automatically detects the user's system locale to format dates, times, numbers, timestamps, and currencies appropriately—for instance, using DD/MM/YYYY in European locales versus MM/DD/YYYY in the United States, or comma separators for thousands in Germany compared to periods in the U.S.[90][91] Developers can leverage functions like Get(SystemLocaleElements) to retrieve details about the current system's locale settings, including elements for date, time, number, and currency formatting, facilitating adaptive behavior in solutions.[92] Similarly, Get(FileLocaleElements) provides information on the locale of the file itself, which defaults to the system locale at creation but can influence consistent data handling across deployments.[93] For localization, FileMaker's user interface is available in 11 primary languages, including English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, Swedish, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Korean, Brazilian Portuguese, and additional variants through authorized partners like Winsoft International for Central and Eastern European languages such as Czech, Polish, Russian, and Turkish.[15][94] Developers can implement language-specific value lists by defining custom entries or pulling from translation tables, ensuring dropdown options adapt to the selected language—for example, displaying "Janvier" for January in French interfaces.[50][95] Script localization is achieved through modular approaches, such as storing translated strings in dedicated tables and dynamically selecting them based on user preferences via functions like Get(SystemLanguage), which returns the operating system's language code to trigger appropriate script steps or messages.[95] Regional sorting and indexing respect the system's language settings by default, applying locale-specific collation rules—for instance, treating accented characters like "é" as distinct or equivalent based on French versus English norms—but developers can override this per field in the field's options dialog to enforce custom linguistic behaviors.[96] While FileMaker supports bidirectional text entry for right-to-left (RTL) languages like Arabic and Hebrew via Unicode, native layout mirroring for RTL interfaces remains limited, requiring developer workarounds such as custom alignment in themes or web viewer integrations for full visual adaptation.[33][97] In FileMaker 2025, enhancements to AI integration include support for multi-language prompts in semantic search and natural language processing features, allowing developers to build solutions that handle queries in various languages without explicit translation layers, though dedicated AI-assisted translation for custom fields is not yet a core capability.[13][85]Security and Access Control
FileMaker provides robust access controls through privilege sets, which define levels of user permissions such as full access for administrators, read-only access for viewing data without modifications, and edit access for updating records while restricting design changes.[98] These sets can be customized to specify permissions for layouts, scripts, fields, and records, ensuring granular control over database interactions.[99] Extended privileges further refine access by enabling or disabling specific actions, such as printing reports or exporting data to external formats, which helps prevent unauthorized data dissemination.[100] Account management in FileMaker supports secure authentication via local accounts with encrypted credentials, as well as integration with external providers through OAuth, including Amazon, Google, and Microsoft services.[101] This allows developers to leverage identity providers for single sign-on, reducing the need for separate credential maintenance while enforcing multi-factor authentication where supported by the provider.[102] For enhanced security, accounts can be enabled, disabled, or have passwords reset programmatically using scripts, with all stored passwords encrypted using AES-256.[103] Encryption in FileMaker includes AES-256 for data at rest, protecting entire database files against unauthorized access when stored on disk or in backups.[104] For data in transit, SSL/TLS secures connections between FileMaker clients, FileMaker Go on mobile devices, and FileMaker Server, with support for custom certificates or automated issuance via Let's Encrypt.[105] File access protection, including user authentication and privilege enforcement, has been a core feature since version 7, which introduced individual account security to replace earlier shared access models.[106] Mobile security in FileMaker relies on device-level authentication combined with the platform's unified security model, ensuring that FileMaker Go apps on iOS and iPadOS enforce the same privilege sets and encryption as desktop versions.[10] Audit logging tracks record changes, user actions, and access events, with the OnWindowTransaction script trigger—introduced in version 20.1.1—enabling comprehensive capture of create, update, and delete operations.[107] Developers can implement script triggers to validate user actions in real-time, such as checking permissions before allowing data modifications or triggering alerts on suspicious activity.[103] The Get(AccountPrivilegeSetName) function retrieves the current user's privilege set name, allowing conditional logic in calculations and scripts to dynamically restrict features based on access levels—for example, hiding export buttons for non-privileged users. In 2025, FileMaker introduced updates supporting zero-trust principles for AI access, enabling self-hosted AI models that process data on-premises without external transmission, thus maintaining data sovereignty.[22] These enhancements, including improved audit logging and activity monitoring, bolster compliance with regulations like GDPR and HIPAA by providing verifiable trails of data access and changes.[108]Mobile and Web Integration
FileMaker Go enables deployment of custom apps to iOS and iPadOS devices, allowing users to access and interact with FileMaker databases on mobile hardware.[15] The 2025 version of FileMaker Go supports iOS and iPadOS 18, providing compatibility with the latest Apple operating systems while maintaining core functionality for offline use.[109] Apps developed in FileMaker Pro can be transferred to devices via direct file sharing or hosted synchronization, supporting offline editing and automatic syncing when reconnected to FileMaker Server or Claris FileMaker Cloud.[15] This offline capability ensures data availability in remote or low-connectivity environments, with changes queued for upload upon regaining network access.[1] FileMaker Go integrates device-specific features to enhance mobile workflows, including camera access for capturing images or scanning directly into records via script steps like Insert Picture. Location services are supported through the Location() function, which retrieves GPS coordinates and accuracy on iOS devices, enabling geolocation-based scripting for tasks such as field service tracking.[110] Additionally, region monitoring allows apps to trigger scripts based on proximity to defined geofences or iBeacons, facilitating automated alerts for location-aware applications.[111] Push and local notifications can be configured via scripts to deliver timely alerts, with local notifications appearing after delays or on layout entry, while push notifications integrate with third-party services like OneSignal through API calls.[112] FileMaker Go accommodates complex interfaces, supporting up to 32,768 objects per layout and effectively handling over 100 layouts in practical deployments limited primarily by device storage.[113] For web integration, FileMaker WebDirect provides direct browser-based access to custom apps using HTML5, allowing users on computers, tablets, or phones to interact with hosted databases without installing client software.[15] Introduced in FileMaker 13 in 2013, as of FileMaker 2025 WebDirect supports up to 150 concurrent connections per secondary machine in multi-machine deployments, depending on hardware and solution complexity.[15] The 2025 release enhances WebDirect with improved usability, performance optimizations, and right-click context menus for better navigation in web environments.[114] Custom Web Publishing extends FileMaker's web capabilities through PHP and XML interfaces, enabling developers to integrate database data into custom websites or applications.[115] PHP publishing allows scripting to query, modify, and display FileMaker data within dynamic web pages, while XML supports HTTP requests for data exchange with external systems.[116] For modern web apps, the FileMaker Data API serves as a RESTful interface, permitting third-party services to create, read, update, and delete records via JSON over HTTPS, with authentication handled through session tokens.[117] This API facilitates seamless integration with external web applications, supporting scripted automation for data synchronization.[118] FileMaker 2025 supports cloud-mobile hybrid deployments, combining on-premise servers with cloud hosting for flexible access across mobile and web channels, including offline mobile use with cloud syncing.[1]Development Tools
Dynamic Markup Language
FileMaker Dynamic Markup Language (FDML) is a proprietary markup language originally developed for generating dynamic web pages directly from FileMaker databases, allowing users to publish and interact with database content over the web without extensive custom coding. Introduced in earlier versions of FileMaker around 1998, FDML enabled the creation of server-side scripts embedded in HTML to query, display, and manipulate data from hosted databases.[28] Since the release of FileMaker Pro 7 in 2004, FDML has evolved into an XML-based system as part of Custom Web Publishing (CWP), replacing the original markup with standardized XML queries and responses to improve interoperability and flexibility. The Web Publishing Engine (WPE) in FileMaker Server processes HTTP requests containing XML commands, converting database layouts and data into XML output that can be transformed into HTML or other formats using XSL stylesheets for customized views. This XML approach supports operations like finding records, editing data, and executing scripts, making it suitable for integrating FileMaker with external web applications.[119][115] Key elements in the XML grammar include theDatabase Design Report (DDR)
The Database Design Report (DDR) is a built-in documentation tool available in Claris FileMaker Pro Advanced. It generates a comprehensive report of the database structure, useful for developers to analyze schema, identify dependencies, troubleshoot issues like broken references or unused elements, and facilitate maintenance or handoffs. To generate a DDR:- Open all relevant database files in the solution.
- Select Tools > Database Design Report from the menu.
- In the dialog, select files to include, choose elements to document (e.g., tables, fields, relationships, scripts, layouts, value lists), and select output format: HTML for browsable, hyperlinked views (deprecated in versions since FileMaker 17) or XML for detailed, machine-readable data.
- Create and save the report.