What Is FileMaker? Features, Benefits and More

Claris FileMaker is a flexible, low-code platform that helps create custom apps to streamline business processes, manage data, and improve productivity. Learn more about it!

Need help tackling challenges like inventory management, project tracking, and customer relationship management through intuitive solutions? Claris FileMaker can help you.

We got you covered! Let’s explore FileMaker key features, real-world applications, and the benefits it offers.

What is FileMaker?

FileMaker is a cross-platform relational database application from Claris International, a subsidiary of Apple Inc. It allows users to create custom apps with a low-code platform, integrating databases and automating workflows. It’s most used by businesses to manage data and refine operations.

Benefits of FileMaker

To understand Claris FileMaker, it’s essential to recognize the benefits that make it a powerful tool for businesses.

• Efficiency: automate repetitive tasks, reduce manual errors, and save time on day-to-day operations.
• Centralized data: keep all your critical information in one place for easy access and better collaboration.
• Scalability: adapt your solutions as your business grows, whether you’re a small team or a large organization.
• Cross-platform compatibility: access your apps on Windows, Mac, iOS, and web browsers for seamless workflows.
• Integration: connect with other tools and platforms to enhance your existing systems and processes.

By leveraging these benefits, businesses can address challenges with tailored solutions, boosting productivity and driving growth.

What can I use FileMaker for?

A better question might be: What can’t you use FileMaker for? As a “Workplace Innovation Platform,” FileMaker bridges the gap between enterprise-level apps and off-the-shelf software, offering a fully customizable solution that adapts to your business’s changing needs. Whether you need to manage data, automate workflows, or build industry-specific applications, FileMaker’s flexibility and ease of use make it an invaluable tool for businesses of all sizes.

At Codence, we’ve used FileMaker to deliver custom-solutions for a variety of industries. For example, we helped a nonprofit streamline its donor management process, enabling better tracking of contributions and improving communication with stakeholders. In another case, we worked with a creative agency to automate client workflows, which saved time and reduced errors in project management. FileMaker has even been used to support complex inventory systems, allowing businesses to keep track of stock levels in real-time.

These examples highlight how FileMaker goes beyond standard office software. It’s a tool that evolves alongside your business, handling everything from CRM systems to custom reporting and more. With Codence’s experience in developing solutions, we’ve seen firsthand how FileMaker can transform the way organizations work, empowering teams to achieve greater efficiency and growth.

What are the components of the FileMaker platform?

There are three main components to creating a FileMaker application: Architecture, scripting, and UI/UX design. Application architecture refers to how you model your tables in the Entity Relationship Diagram and in the Relationship Graph as part of FileMaker. Scripting is pretty straight forward as that’s how FileMaker works its magic independent of FileMaker’s relationship magic (insert joke about significant others here). UI/UX (User Interface/User Experience) design is user-centered design, which is all about how the app looks and what the user experiences during its use.

I’m part of the FM / 42 SV Partnership. What should I know?

It’s not C and you don’t have to worry about memory leaks. I know, right? That is pretty exciting! If you’ve taken the web development piscine, it’s kind of like that, but just in one platform. I happen to enjoy designing apps that look pretty and are user-friendly, which is insanely easy to do with FileMaker. Unless you’ve got decent database experience, you’ll also probably be most at home with scripting. Speaking of, FileMaker has an extremely easy way to do looping that you’ll want to check out. If you’re anything like me, the relational design between databases will be your weak point. Knowing MySQL doesn’t help for basic relational design, so if you can find resources about data modeling now, your life will be so much easier later.

Why can’t I just use Excel?

Excel is a great tool, and it does share some similarities with FileMaker. It’s great for creating spreadsheets, performing calculations, and handling basic data management tasks. But when it comes to building robust, multi-user applications with dynamically updated data, Excel has its limitations.

Unlike Excel, which is primarily designed for individual use, FileMaker is built for collaboration. With FileMaker, multiple users can access and update data in real-time without the risk of overwriting someone else’s work. It’s also better suited for complex workflows, allowing you to integrate advanced features like automated processes, custom reporting, and secure user roles.

Another key difference is scalability. While Excel works well for simple data sets, FileMaker excels at handling larger, interconnected databases. For example, instead of managing multiple linked spreadsheets, FileMaker lets you create a single platform where tables, relationships, and interfaces are seamlessly connected.

At Codence, we’ve seen clients make the switch when their needs outgrow Excel. For instance, businesses managing inventory or customer data often struggle with Excel’s manual updates and lack of automation. By moving to FileMaker, they’ve gained tools that streamline processes, improve accuracy, and support growth.

How long will it take me to build my custom app?

That fully depends on the scope of your project. Statistically speaking, you can roll out any size app in about a sixth of the time using FileMaker than what you would normally be able to do with any other programming language. For more information on how easy FileMaker is, check out this video showing you how quick and easy getting started is.

Will I be able to make my own custom app without any programming experience?

Yes! If you want to create your own app from scratch, FileMaker is an excellent platform for experimenting, trying things, adding features incrementally over time, and learning with. Maybe on day one, your app is fairly simple – it can grow with you as you learn how to unlock more and more of FileMaker’s power under-the-hood.

One caveat: make sure to consider the complexity of your project. Here is an excellent quiz to help you decide. If you find yourself stuck on your DIY journey or need to consult with certified FileMaker developers, we’re happy to lend a hand!

Can you use FileMaker with other technologies?

Absolutely, you can! FileMaker is designed to integrate seamlessly with a wide range of technologies, making it a highly versatile platform for businesses. For example, you can use APIs to connect FileMaker with popular platforms like Salesforce, QuickBooks, or Shopify, enabling data exchange and workflow automation. 

Through ODBC/JDBC, FileMaker can interact with SQL databases, allowing you to query external datasets or integrate with legacy systems. Additionally, the iOS SDK lets you develop custom mobile apps for iPhones and iPads, leveraging FileMaker’s database capabilities on the go.

At Codence, we’ve implemented integrations to solve real-world challenges. In one case, we helped integrate FileMaker with cloud services to centralize clients data, allowing for real-time updates and improved communication among team members. 

The possibilities don’t end there. FileMaker’s compatibility extends to cloud services, REST APIs, and even IoT devices, making it a powerful hub for your tech ecosystem. With the right setup, you can turn FileMaker into the backbone of a fully integrated, efficient operation. For more information on its compatibility, explore Claris’s detailed list of supported technologies.

Does FileMaker work via the Web?

Yes, FileMaker can work via the web, offering two main options: Custom Web Publishing (CWP) and FileMaker WebDirect. Each has its strengths, but they also come with limitations you should consider before deciding which one suits your needs.

With Custom Web Publishing, you can create a fully customized “front end” for your application using technologies like PHP or JavaScript. This approach allows you to integrate FileMaker’s data with other web platforms and services, offering maximum flexibility and control. 

On the other hand, FileMaker WebDirect provides a browser-based interface that brings much of FileMaker Pro’s functionality to the web without requiring coding. It’s an excellent solution for quick deployment, enabling users to access FileMaker solutions directly through a web browser.

While these options expand FileMaker’s usability, they’re not without constraints. For example, performance may degrade with heavy data loads or a large number of concurrent users, and customization options are more limited in WebDirect compared to a fully native FileMaker Pro application. Before diving into a web-based FileMaker setup, it’s worth reviewing the FileMaker Web Overview to ensure the solution aligns with your project’s needs.

Can you build a mobile app in FileMaker?

Absolutely! FileMaker Go is available for free from the App Store on Apple devices, and you can also use FileMaker’s iOS SDK to publish your app to the App Store. While there’s currently no plan from FileMaker to make FileMaker Go available on Android devices, it is possible to use FileMaker WebDirect via your mobile browser on any device. More information on FileMaker and mobile devices can be found here.

Can you host FileMaker in the Cloud or on your own Server?

Yes, FileMaker can be hosted either in the cloud or on your own server. With FileMaker Server, you have full control over hosting, making it ideal for businesses with specific security or compliance requirements. Alternatively, FileMaker Cloud offers a managed solution hosted on AWS, providing ease of use, automatic updates, and scalability for teams looking for convenience.

Both options are designed to accommodate different needs, whether you prioritize customization and control or simplicity and accessibility. To learn more, check out the Claris FileMaker Cloud overview.

Are there any out-of-the-box business solutions available?

Funny you should ask… Genesis Financial Suite offers a business and accounting framework that’s ideal for anyone looking to incorporate business accounting software, inventory management, information management, or financial reports using FileMaker. You can also continue to leverage the FileMaker platform by further customizing or integrating with your own files. We think of it as a “best of both worlds” option. You can start using Genesis Financial Suite without any custom features, or we can help you fully customize for your workflow! There are also other commercial solutions out there, both apps focused on solving specific problems, and general business systems like Genesis. We encourage you to take a look at Claris’ Market Place.

Where can I find how-tos, tutorials, and DIY resources?

Here are some excellent resources to help you answer more FileMaker FAQ:

General help:

• FileMaker Pro 17 Advanced User Guide
• FileMaker Developer Community
• FileMakerCustom App Academy
• FileMaker Training Series (it’s for 15 but a lot is still applicable)
• Understanding FileMaker Relationships

What is the difference between FileMaker Pro and FileMaker Server?

The difference lies in their roles and functionality within the FileMaker ecosystem.

• FileMaker Pro: this is the powerhouse for building and using custom apps. It’s designed to tackle complex business challenges with a fast, flexible platform that adapts as your needs evolve. FileMaker Pro is ideal for creating layouts, writing scripts, and managing databases, making it the go-to tool for app development and individual use.
• FileMaker Server: this is the secure hosting solution for sharing your Claris apps in real time. It enables teams to access and collaborate on FileMaker solutions across any device, providing greater visibility and data consistency. Hosted on-premises, FileMaker Server ensures robust security, reliable performance, and seamless sharing for larger teams and organizations.

Whether you’re managing data, improving processes, or integrating technologies, FileMaker offers unmatched versatility that grows with your business. 

Want to know more? Discover how FileMaker can unlock new possibilities and drive success across your industry with Codence. Request a consultation today.