FileMaker

FileMaker
Name	FileMaker
Developer	Claris International Inc.
Released	April 1985
Latest release version	19.6.2
Latest release date	12 October 2022
Operating system	Microsoft Windows, macOS, iOS
Genre	Database management system, Rapid application development
License	Proprietary software
Website	https://www.claris.com/filemaker/

FileMaker. It is a cross-platform relational database application developed by Claris International Inc., a subsidiary of Apple Inc.. The software integrates a database engine with a graphical user interface and design tools, enabling users to modify the platform by adding new tables, fields, forms, and scripts without traditional programming. Widely used for creating custom solutions for business management, customer relationship management, and inventory control, FileMaker is known for its ease of use and rapid development capabilities.

History

The product originated in the mid-1980s as a DOS program named *Nutshell*, developed by Nashoba Systems. Following its acquisition by Apple Inc. in 1987, it was rebranded as FileMaker and initially released for the Apple Macintosh. A significant evolution occurred with the release of FileMaker Pro 2.0 in 1992, which introduced a relational model. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, the software expanded to support Microsoft Windows, embraced web publishing with technologies like XML and PHP, and was spun off to Claris International Inc., which continues its development. Major milestones include the introduction of the FileMaker Pro Advanced developer edition and a shift to annual releases with the FileMaker 12 platform.

Features

Core features center on its integrated development environment, which allows for the visual design of database schema, layouts, and user interface elements. It supports a wide array of data types, calculation fields, and scripting for automating workflows. The platform offers robust connectivity via ODBC and JDBC drivers, enabling integration with external systems like Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle Database. Advanced capabilities include the execution of SQL statements, integration of REST API services, and built-in security features such as privilege sets and encryption at rest. Reporting tools allow for the creation of summaries, charts, and PDF output.

Platforms and deployment

FileMaker solutions can be deployed across several environments. The primary design client, FileMaker Pro, runs on both macOS and Microsoft Windows. For mobile access, FileMaker Go is available on iOS devices like the iPhone and iPad. Server-side deployment is handled by FileMaker Server for on-premises installation or FileMaker Cloud for a hosted service on Amazon Web Services. Solutions can also be accessed via a web browser using FileMaker WebDirect. This multi-faceted deployment model supports a range of use cases from individual desktop databases to enterprise-wide systems.

FileMaker Pro

This is the main client application used for designing, modifying, and interacting with FileMaker databases. It provides a comprehensive workspace for creating tables, defining fields, and building layouts with drag-and-drop tools. Users can write scripts using the FileMaker Script Workspace to automate complex sequences of actions. FileMaker Pro Advanced includes additional diagnostic tools such as the Data Viewer and Script Debugger. It facilitates data import and export in formats including Microsoft Excel, CSV, and Tab-separated values.

FileMaker Server

This software enables the hosting of FileMaker databases in a centralized, multi-user environment. Installed on a dedicated machine running Windows Server or macOS Server, it manages client connections, schedules automated scripts, and performs regular backups. FileMaker Server Admin Console provides a web-based interface for administration. It supports high availability through mirroring with a secondary server and includes a web publishing engine to serve custom web applications and the FileMaker WebDirect interface.

FileMaker Go

A mobile application designed for iOS, FileMaker Go allows users to access and interact with hosted FileMaker solutions on devices like the iPad and iPhone. It supports touch-optimized layouts, barcode scanning using the device's camera, and signature capture. While it does not include design capabilities, it is fully capable of running scripts and displaying data from FileMaker Server or FileMaker Cloud. Its offline mode enables limited data entry when a network connection is unavailable.

FileMaker Cloud

This is a fully managed, cloud-based deployment option hosted on Amazon Web Services. It provides the core functionality of FileMaker Server without requiring hardware provisioning or software maintenance by the customer. Managed directly through the Claris Admin Console, it offers automated updates, scaling, and disaster recovery features. FileMaker Cloud supports secure external access via SSL/TLS and integrates with AWS services for storage and networking, providing a streamlined path for web and mobile deployment. Category:Database management systems Category:Claris Category:MacOS software Category:Windows software Category:IOS software