FileMaker Pro

amazon FileMaker Pro reviews

FileMaker Pro is a database software powerful and very easy to use, can help you and your team to quickly complete any task. Millions of people who work in the fields of business, politics and education have used FileMaker Pro to manage all the information on the website, the device iPhone, iPad, Windows, Mac.

This software provides a lot of user-friendly tools, including original solutions – Starter Solutions – to help users quickly manage critical tasks such as management, customize and share information online or via the website.

Create custom databases: Create custom databases to suit the needs of the user. To get started, drag and drop Microsoft Excel data into FileMaker Pro in.
Job Report: Get reporting tools step by step, helps users manage and automate tasks. Easily create and email reports in Excel and PDF.

Upload data to the web: Upload safety database available to just a few simple clicks. With this tool, users can easily create surveys, site subscribers, get feedback forms from customers, quickly … Share: Share securely with Windows and Mac users. In addition, the software also supports sharing databases over a network with 9 other users.

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FileMaker Pro 14: Buy it now

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FileMaker Pro 13 – English: Buy it now

FileMaker Pro 14 Advanced: Buy it now

FileMaker Pro 14 Education Download Mac [Download]: Buy it now

FileMaker Pro 14 Download Win [Download]: Buy it now

Introduction to FileMaker Pro

FileMaker Pro, developed by Claris International (formerly a subsidiary of Apple Inc.), is a powerful and versatile relational database management software (RDBMS) that allows users to create custom applications for managing data. Launched in the mid-1980s, FileMaker has evolved significantly, offering intuitive tools for designing databases, automating workflows, and deploying solutions across various platforms. In this review, we will explore the features, usability, strengths, weaknesses, and overall value of FileMaker Pro as a tool for database management and application development.

Overview of Features

1. Database Creation and Management

FileMaker Pro enables users to build relational databases without requiring extensive programming knowledge:

• Layout Design: Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for creating layouts, forms, and reports.
• Table Management: Easily define tables, fields, and relationships between data sets.
• Scripting: Automate tasks and workflows using built-in scripts and calculations.
• Import and Export: Seamlessly import data from various sources and export to different formats.

2. Custom App Development

Users can develop custom applications tailored to specific business needs:

• Forms and Layouts: Design user-friendly interfaces with customizable forms and layouts.
• Script Editor: Create scripts to automate processes, validate data, and perform calculations.
• Integration: Integrate with other applications and services through APIs and plugins.
• Deployment: Deploy solutions across desktop, web, and mobile platforms (FileMaker Go for iOS).

3. Security and Data Protection

FileMaker Pro prioritizes data security and user access control:

• Encryption: Protect data with AES-256 encryption both at rest and in transit.
• Privilege Sets: Assign granular permissions to users and groups.
• External Authentication: Integrate with LDAP and Active Directory for centralized authentication.

4. Cross-Platform Compatibility

FileMaker Pro supports deployment across multiple operating systems and devices:

• Desktop: Compatible with Windows and macOS environments.
• Web: Publish databases as web applications accessible via web browsers.
• Mobile: FileMaker Go app for iOS devices enables mobile access and functionality.

Usability and User Experience

1. Interface and Design Tools

FileMaker Pro offers a user-friendly interface with powerful design capabilities:

• Drag-and-Drop: Intuitive interface for creating layouts and forms.
• Themes and Styles: Pre-designed themes and customizable styles enhance visual appeal.
• Field Types: Support for various data types (text, number, date, container fields for images/files).

2. Workflow Automation

Automation features streamline business processes and improve efficiency:

• Script Workspace: Visual editor for creating scripts with step-by-step automation.
• Trigger Events: Automate actions based on user interactions (e.g., button clicks, field changes).
• Scheduled Scripts: Schedule scripts to run at specified times for batch processing.

3. Integration and Extensibility

FileMaker Pro supports integration with external systems and extensibility through plugins:

• External Data Sources: Connect to SQL databases, ODBC/JDBC data sources.
• REST APIs: Integrate with web services and external APIs for data exchange.
• Plugins: Extend functionality with third-party plugins for additional features (e.g., barcode scanning, PDF generation).

Strengths of FileMaker Pro

1. Rapid Application Development

FileMaker Pro excels in rapid prototyping and deployment of custom applications:

• Low Code Environment: Build applications with minimal programming knowledge.
• Prototype Iteration: Quickly iterate and refine designs based on user feedback.
• Scalability: Scale solutions from small projects to enterprise-level applications.

2. Flexibility and Customization

The software offers flexibility to adapt to diverse business requirements:

• Custom Apps: Tailor applications to specific workflows and business processes.
• Modular Design: Design modular solutions that can evolve with changing needs.
• User Interface: Create personalized user experiences with customizable layouts and themes.

3. Cross-Platform Accessibility

FileMaker Pro supports deployment across multiple platforms, enhancing accessibility and usability:

• Multi-Device Compatibility: Access databases on desktops, web browsers, and mobile devices.
• FileMaker Go: Mobile app for iOS devices enables offline access and on-the-go productivity.
• Web Publishing: Publish databases as web applications for broader accessibility.

Weaknesses and Limitations

1. Learning Curve for Advanced Features

While FileMaker Pro is user-friendly for basic tasks, mastering advanced features may require learning scripting and relational database concepts.

2. Dependency on FileMaker Ecosystem

FileMaker Pro’s integration and extensibility are primarily within the FileMaker ecosystem, which may limit seamless integration with other software and platforms.

3. Cost Considerations

The software’s licensing model, which includes upfront costs and subscription options, may be prohibitive for smaller businesses or individual users.

Applications and Industry Use Cases

1. Small to Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs)

FileMaker Pro is popular among SMBs for managing customer relationships, inventory, project tracking, and internal workflows.

2. Education and Non-Profit Organizations

Educational institutions and non-profits use FileMaker Pro for student management, fundraising, event planning, and donor tracking.

3. Creative Industries

Creative professionals leverage FileMaker Pro for media asset management, content production workflows, and digital asset libraries.

Community and Support

1. FileMaker Community

FileMaker Pro benefits from an active community of developers, users, and third-party vendors:

• Forums and Discussions: Online forums for troubleshooting, tips, and best practices.
• Developer Resources: Training materials, webinars, and certification programs.
• Third-party Solutions: Plugins, templates, and custom development services.

2. Technical Support

Claris offers technical support options for FileMaker Pro users, including phone support, knowledge base articles, and software updates.

Conclusion

FileMaker Pro continues to be a robust solution for database management and custom application development, combining intuitive design tools, workflow automation, and cross-platform accessibility. Its strengths in rapid application prototyping, flexibility, and security make it a valuable tool for businesses seeking to streamline operations and enhance productivity. Despite potential learning curves and cost considerations, FileMaker Pro remains a versatile choice for users ranging from SMBs to larger enterprises across various industries.

With ongoing updates, community support, and a commitment to innovation, FileMaker Pro remains at the forefront of relational database management software, empowering users to create tailored solutions that meet specific business needs. Whether used for project tracking, client management, or data analysis, FileMaker Pro exemplifies the evolution of database technology towards user-centric design, integration, and scalability in today’s digital landscape.