With FileMaker is a so-called "rapid engineering" database management system. Behind this somewhat unwieldy name lies a relational database system that can be used to create business databases with individual operating processes in a very short space of time. These databases can be accessed with macOS, Windows, iOS and a web browser. FileMaker dates back to the early days of computers - the first versions were developed by the company Nutshell for MS-DOS back in 1982/1983. Today, FileMaker provides several different software versions that can be used to implement a wide variety of database solutions in any scalable manner. The gFM-Business ERP software is based on the FileMaker platform and can be extended with FileMaker Pro (Advanced) as part of customizing or open licenses.
Table of contents
- Why low code rapid engineering apps?
- DTP-like functions for layout creation.
- FileMaker for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
- FileMaker for large companies and web applications.
- Individual business databases quickly realized.
- All ERP platforms at a glance
- FileMaker 19 platform released in May 2020
- FileMaker 2023 platform since April 2023
- New low-code Claris platform from 2023
- FileMaker 2024 Platform
- Version history since FileMaker 12
- Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
- FileMaker as the basis of the gFM-Business ERP software
Why low code rapid engineering apps?
With a rapid engineering or low-code system such as FileMaker Pro, you can react to changes to your operating processes in the shortest possible time because you can make changes to all databases in your ERP software directly during operation. No codes need to be compiled, but changes to a database or the programming structure take effect immediately. This approach saves a lot of time and enables flexible company management, whose innovations are immediately integrated into the "back end" of the company and all associated processes. A rapid engineering system therefore gives you an edge over your competitors because you can react quickly and efficiently to all situations.
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Interfaces for flexible application options.
FileMaker has all the interfaces that may be required in practice. At its simplest, FileMaker can import data from Excel spreadsheets and workbooks, tab or comma-separated text files, mail merge files and DBASE files or data from FileMaker Bento. In addition, FileMaker supports the import of XML files with any stylesheets and data from any ODBC data sources via SQL statements. The latter can even be used directly as tables in FileMaker databases. With the integrated REST API, other (SQL) databases can easily access FileMaker databases.
Using FileMaker Server, FileMaker databases can theoretically be shared with any number of users at any number of locations in the network. The data can be shared not only for FileMaker clients, but also for direct web publishing (access via the Internet browser) and for access via PHP (e.g. by websites or online stores).
The FileMaker 16 platform includes JSON and cURL functions to connect FileMaker databases to any other system with a RESTful API. Data from third-party systems can be easily accessed for reading and writing, and the FileMaker database itself can also be equipped with a RESTful API. This interface has become the standard for many online stores and other web-based systems.
Thanks to the low-code philosophy of Claris FileMaker and the possibilities of FileMaker and the MBS plugin, interfaces of all kinds can be implemented and realized in the shortest possible time.
Plug-in interface for thousands of additional functions
Since the early versions, FileMaker Pro has included the option of extending the range of functions with the help of plugins. Over the years, many plugin manufacturers have established themselves on the FileMaker plugin market and offer some very specialized plugins for a wide variety of applications. For example, there are plugins for use with Microsoft Outlook or Exchange servers, special interface plugins or plugins for displaying extremely complex (scientific) diagrams.
One of the most universal and well-known plugins is the MBS FileMaker Plugin from Monkeybreadsoftwarewhich has been available on the market for many years and to date provides more than 6,000 additional functions for FileMaker from a wide variety of areas.
DTP-like functions for layout creation.
For the creation of screen and print layouts (reports), FileMaker offers a powerful layout mode with a wide range of functions. As in a DTP program, all objects can be placed on the page with pixel or millimetre precision. In addition to field objects, FileMaker supports any graphic objects, text objects, data portals and web viewers in which any content from the World Wide Web can be displayed.
With the inspector window, which is available in layout mode, numerous settings can be made for each object, which can be saved as a design style and called up again later in other layouts. The layout functions of FileMaker can certainly be described as very powerful and in some cases go far beyond the functions of other programs such as Microsoft Excel or Microsoft Access.
FileMaker for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Similar to Microsoft Excel or comparable applications, FileMaker is an extremely flexible database tool for companies. With its variety of interfaces, FileMaker is ideal for viewing and editing data from any source quickly and easily. With its extensive layout functions, data can be displayed very easily in any form. FileMaker supports screen layouts as well as print reports and diagrams for the graphical representation of figures.
The entry into the FileMaker world is the software FileMaker Pro which is available for Mac OS X and Windows. FileMaker Pro can be used to run FileMaker databases and create new databases. If you want to go deeper into database development with FileMaker, you will find FileMaker Pro Advanced The right software that has advanced features for developers, such as custom functions or a script debugger. With FileMaker Advanced it is also possible to create runtime applications for Mac OS X and Windows that can run without the use of FileMaker Pro, but are not network-compatible.
Since FileMaker 18, there is no longer a separation between FileMaker Pro and FileMaker Pro Advanced, but Claris offers only one FileMaker version, which also contains all Advanced functions.
FileMaker for large companies and web applications.
With FileMaker Server it is possible to share FileMaker databases with up to several hundred users on the network, intranet or Internet. Users can access the databases using Windows, Mac OS X, a mobile iOS device or an Internet browser. FileMaker Server also supports database sharing via XML, for PHP-based applications and via ODBC/JDBC. Access to FileMaker Server with FileMaker Go for the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch requires appropriate access licenses, FileMaker Pro for Windows or Mac OS X can access shared databases of a FileMaker Server without additional licenses.
Individual business databases quickly realized.
With the FileMaker platform, individual business databases that are tailored to the specific requirements of the respective company can be realized in a very short time. Compared to other products such as SAP or Navision, the implementation period is significantly shorter, which means that development costs are also kept to a minimum.
Our CRM and merchandise management system gFM-Business is based on the FileMaker platform and can be individually adapted to special requirements by the customer in the individual versions. The software runs under Mac OS X, Windows and on the Apple iPad. We would be happy to provide you with an individual Offer.
All ERP platforms at a glance
Free FileMaker ERP platform, includes CRM with address management, article and warehouse management (1 warehouse), invoices and credit notes, developer module with documentation of all standards, tables, fields and scripts with full-text search to support customization and expansion.
Open license, fully customizable with Claris FileMaker Pro.
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gFM-Business Open Source Plus is the extended open source version and also includes quotations, order confirmations, delivery bills and reminders in the invoicing module. The software contains all the automatic functions for converting orders into delivery bills, delivery bills into invoices, etc. gFM-Business Open Source Plus is available in our online store for a one-off purchase price of 499 euros plus 19% VAT.
Open license, fully customizable with Claris FileMaker Pro.
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CRM additionally with contact persons, action chronicle and resubmissions, services and time recording, correspondence module with document templates and integrated e-mail client, cash book with automatic bookings and DATEV export, article management with suppliers, project management module, logbook management, customer and company-related statistics, online store interface for an online shop (Shopware, WooCommerce, Gambio or Modified Shopsoftware).
Available as standard, custom and open license for Claris FileMaker Pro
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Support for multiple clients, storage locations and languages (system-wide), CRM with additional route planning and ticket system, supplier inquiries, orders and returns, cash book with posting list, journal and any number of tills, item management for multiple storage locations, product variants, price-relevant product properties, parts list and batch management, extended project management, task and personnel management, inventory management, support for multiple parallel online stores (also in mixed operation of multiple store systems).
Available as standard, custom and open license for Claris FileMaker Pro
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FileMaker 19 platform released in May 2020
Apple subsidiary Claris International Inc. has updated the FileMaker platform to the new version 19: the company's first open platform for developers to quickly create sophisticated custom apps with direct JavaScript integration, drag-and-drop add-ons, AI via Apple's Core ML and more. With FileMaker 19, developers can be more productive and organizations can now leverage Claris' global developer community, add-on marketplace and existing developer resources to solve complex digital problems together. FileMaker 19 includes several new features that make it easy to make your own apps even more powerful. Thanks to the possibility of integrating JavaScript, FileMaker solutions can now also be expanded to include any JavaScript applications.
FileMaker 2023 platform since April 2023
On April 25, 2023, Claris released the new FileMaker 2023 platform. From now on, the new version numbers will be based on the current year, and the logo and program icon have been renewed. FileMaker has also been improved under the hood in the new version, which now includes additional functions for transactions and in the areas of JSON and JavaScript. FileMaker 2023 is said to be even more performant than the previous version, and FileMaker Server now supports Ubuntu 22 LTS Linux on Intel and ARM processors. WebDirect can be used with 1000 simultaneous users, 256 shared databases are possible per server.
Internally, FileMaker 2023 contains the version number 20.1. The software of the 2023, 19.6, 19.5 and 19.4.2 product series can be used together.
New low-code Claris platform from 2023
The new Claris platform will be available as a low-code development environment from February 2023. The new platform consists of the products Claris Pro, Claris Server, Claris Studio and Claris Connect. Claris Pro corresponds to FileMaker Pro, but uses a new internal data format (.claris instead of .fmp12). Existing FileMaker databases in .fmp12 format can be converted to the format of the new Claris platform, but not vice versa. Claris Pro supports local databases and databases in the cloud.
The prerequisite for using the new low-code Claris platform is a Claris ID, which is created after a free registration is available. Claris offers additional paid licenses to provide data for workgroups.
FileMaker 2024 Platform
The new FileMaker 2024 platform includes a New database enginewhich allows faster queries and even larger databases. The user interface has been modernized and adapted to current design standards. New functions and tools improve user-friendliness and enable more efficient navigation within the platform.
The FileMaker 2024 platform offers Extended API functionalitieswhich enable easier integration with other software solutions and services. This applies in particular to RESTful APIswhich ensure seamless communication with external applications. FileMaker 2024 supports even closer integration with Claris Connectwhich facilitates automated workflows and connection to various cloud services.
FileMaker 2024 now supports the Two-factor authenticationwhich provides additional protection for user accounts. The Script Workspace has been equipped with new functions that make it easier to create and manage scripts. These include Improved debugging tools and Extended syntax highlighting-options. The Layout tools now offer even more options for designing user interfaces. New widgets and extended customization options make it easier to create appealing and functional layouts.
FileMaker 2024 integrates possibilities for the use of machine learning and artificial intelligence. This allows developers to integrate intelligent functions into their applications, such as predictive analytics and automated decision-making.
FileMaker 2024 presented by Douglas Wallis
Recording of the FMM regulars' table Hamburg from 04.07.2024
Version history since FileMaker 12
Important features
- Improved support for machine learning and AI to integrate predictions and automation into databases
- Introduction of "Connected Apps": Ability to seamlessly integrate FileMaker solutions with other SaaS applications
- Extended cloud functions and optimization of security for enterprise applications
- Improvements to the user interface and usability to further increase the efficiency of developers
Minimum requirements
macOS:
- Operating system: macOS 12 Monterey, macOS 13 Ventura, macOS 14 (upcoming version)
- Hardware: Apple Silicon Mac (natively supported) or Intel-based Mac, at least 8 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 3 GB for the installation
Windows:
- Operating system: Windows 10 Pro/Enterprise, Windows 11
- Hardware: Intel Core i5 or better, at least 8 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 3 GB for the installation
iOS (FileMaker Go 2024):
- Operating system: iOS 16.0 or newer
- Devices: iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch
Important features
- Native support for Apple Silicon, which significantly improves performance on modern Macs
- Extended low-code and no-code functions for faster development without in-depth programming knowledge
- New layout options and tools for even more intuitive user interfaces
- Improved integration with cloud services and extended API support for hybrid and native apps
Minimum requirements
macOS:
- Operating system: macOS 11 Big Sur, macOS 12 Monterey, macOS 13 Ventura
- Hardware: Apple Silicon Mac (natively supported) or Intel-based Mac, at least 8 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 3 GB for the installation
Windows:
- Operating system: Windows 10 Pro/Enterprise, Windows 11
- Hardware: Intel Core i5 or better, at least 8 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 3 GB for the installation
iOS (FileMaker Go 2023):
- Operating system: iOS 15.0 or newer
- Devices: iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch
Important features
- Support for Apple Silicon (via Rosetta 2) and performance improvements on M1 Macs
- Improved WebDirect performance and compatibility
- Extended support for JavaScript and web viewer integration
- Introduction of new AI functions to automate repetitive tasks
Minimum requirements
macOS:
- Operating system: macOS 10.15 Catalina, macOS 11 Big Sur
- Hardware: Intel-based Mac or Apple Silicon Mac (Rosetta 2 required), at least 8 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 2.5 GB for the installation
Windows:
- Operating system: Windows 10 Pro/Enterprise, Windows 11
- Hardware: Intel Core i3 or better, at least 8 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 2.5 GB for the installation
iOS (FileMaker Go 20):
- Operating system: iOS 14.0 or newer
- Devices: iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch
Important features
- Introduction of add-ons and JavaScript support
- Improved performance and stability
- Extended API integration and automation functions
Minimum requirements
macOS:
- Operating system: macOS 10.14 Mojave, macOS 10.15 Catalina
- Hardware: Intel-based Mac, at least 8 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 2.5 GB for the installation
Windows:
- Operating system: Windows 8.1, Windows 10 Pro/Enterprise
- Hardware: Intel Core i3 or better, at least 8 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 2.5 GB for the installation
iOS (FileMaker Go 19):
- Operating system: iOS 13.2 or newer
- Devices: iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch
Important features
- Improved developer tools, including database analysis and troubleshooting
- Improved security through encryption and password management
- Enhanced FileMaker Data API for better integration
Minimum requirements
macOS:
- Operating system: macOS 10.13 High Sierra, macOS 10.14 Mojave
- Hardware: Intel-based Mac, at least 4 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 2 GB for the installation
Windows:
- Operating system: Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows 10 Pro/Enterprise
- Hardware: Intel Core 2 Duo or better, at least 4 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 2 GB for the installation
iOS (FileMaker Go 18):
- Operating system: iOS 12.0 or newer
- Devices: iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch
Important features
- Introduction of the FileMaker Admin Console
- Improved user interfaces with new layout options
- Enhanced security features and improvements to user management
Minimum requirements
macOS:
- Operating system: macOS 10.12 Sierra, macOS 10.13 High Sierra
- Hardware: Intel-based Mac, at least 4 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 1.5 GB for the installation
Windows:
- Operating system: Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows 10 Pro/Enterprise
- Hardware: Intel Core 2 Duo or better, at least 4 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 1.5 GB for the installation
iOS (FileMaker Go 17):
- Operating system: iOS 11.2 or newer
- Devices: iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch
Important features
- Support for JSON and extended cURL options
- Improved integration through REST-based FileMaker Data API
- Improvement of layout objects and anchor points
Minimum requirements
macOS:
- Operating system: macOS 10.11 El Capitan, macOS 10.12 Sierra
- Hardware: Intel-based Mac, at least 4 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 1 GB for the installation
Windows:
- Operating system: Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows 10 Pro/Enterprise
- Hardware: Intel Pentium 4 / AMD Athlon 64 or better, at least 4 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 1 GB for the installation
iOS (FileMaker Go 16):
- Operating system: iOS 10.0 or newer
- Devices: iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch
Important features
- Improved security features, including support for OAuth 2.0
- New WebDirect optimizations for mobile devices
- Performance optimizations and stability improvements
Minimum requirements
macOS:
- Operating system: OS X 10.9, 10.10, 10.11
- Hardware: Intel-based Mac, at least 4 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 1 GB for the installation
Windows:
- Operating system: Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows 10 Pro/Enterprise
- Hardware: Intel Pentium 4 / AMD Athlon 64 or better, at least 4 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 1 GB for the installation
iOS (FileMaker Go 15):
- Operating system: iOS 9.3 or newer
- Devices: iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch
Important features
- Introduction of Script Workspace for more efficient scripting
- Improved support for iOS devices
- Improved WebDirect functions
Minimum requirements
macOS:
- Operating system: OS X 10.8, 10.9, 10.10
- Hardware: Intel-based Mac, at least 4 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 1 GB for the installation
Windows:
- Operating system: Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows 10 Pro
- Hardware: Intel Pentium 4 / AMD Athlon 64 or better, at least 4 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 1 GB for the installation
iOS (FileMaker Go 14):
- Operating system: iOS 8.1 or newer
- Devices: iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch
Important features
- Introduction of WebDirect for the browser-based use of FileMaker databases
- Improved user interface with new designs
- Improved security through encryption at file level
Minimum requirements
macOS:
- Operating system: OS X 10.7, 10.8, 10.9
- Hardware: Intel-based, at least 2 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 700 MB for the installation
Windows:
- Operating system: Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8, Windows 8.1
- Hardware: Pentium 4 or equivalent, at least 2 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 700 MB for the installation
iOS (FileMaker Go 13):
- Operating system: iOS 6.0 or newer
- Devices: iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch
Important features
- Introduction of the new file format (.fmp12)
- Improved design and layout tools
- Performance improvements for operation on iOS devices
Minimum requirements
macOS:
- Operating system: Mac OS X 10.6.8, 10.7.x
- Hardware: Intel-based, at least 2 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 300 MB for the installation
Windows:
- Operating system: Windows XP SP3, Windows Vista SP2, Windows 7 SP1
- Hardware: Pentium 4 processor (or equivalent), at least 2 GB RAM
- Storage space: Approx. 300 MB for the installation
iOS (FileMaker Go 12):
- Operating system: iOS 5.1 or newer
- Devices: iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
- What data limits does FileMaker have? FileMaker can store up to 8 TB of data in a maximum of one million tables per database file.
- Is FileMaker Server always required for network sharing? With FileMaker Pro, databases can be shared with up to four other users on the network. If more than five users in the network are to work with a FileMaker database, FileMaker Server is required.
- Where can I get FileMaker Go for iOS? FileMaker Go can be downloaded free of charge for the iPhone, iPad and iPod touch from the iTunes App Store.
- Can I test FileMaker free of charge first? On the FileMaker website you can download a free demo version from FileMaker for Mac OS X and Windows, which can be run without restrictions for a test period.
- Do I need additional licenses for access with FileMaker Go? The standard version of FileMaker Server supports access to any number of FileMaker Pro clients for Mac OS X or Windows as well as access to a FileMaker Go client for iOS. If additional iOS devices are to access FileMaker Server, corresponding access licenses are required.
- How can FileMaker databases be used on iOS? You can either use FileMaker Go to access a database shared on the network or copy your database(s) directly to your iOS device via iTunes.
- Can FileMaker databases also be used via the Internet? Of course, it is also possible to share FileMaker databases with a web server on the Internet so that the databases can be accessed from anywhere in the world. For this purpose, there are appropriate hosting service providers who specialize in sharing FileMaker databases on the Internet.
- How many users does FileMaker Server 15 support? With FileMaker Server 15, databases can theoretically be shared with an unlimited number of users on the network. According to FileMaker, the capacity of an installed FileMaker Server has been successfully tested with up to 250 logged-in users for FileMaker Pro, up to 200 users for Custom Web Publishing, 50 users for FileMaker Go and 50 users for ODBC/JDBC.
- What are the system requirements for FileMaker 15? FileMaker 15 requires a PC with Windows 7 or newer or an Apple Macintosh with Mac OS X 10.10 "Yosemite" or higher, at least 4 GB of RAM and at least 200 MB of hard disk space. FileMaker supports Citrix XenApp 6.5, Windows Server 2012 Terminal Services and Windows 2008 R2 Terminal Services. FileMaker uses TCP/IP as the network protocol.
- How many users does FileMaker Server 16 support? FileMaker 16 supports any number of database connections to FileMaker Pro/Go and up to 500 simultaneous connections for FileMaker WebDirect.
FileMaker as the basis of the gFM-Business ERP software
The gFM-Business ERP Software for Mac, Windows and Apple iOS is based on the FileMaker platform and is executable in the current version from FileMaker Pro (Advanced) 17. Due to this basis, gFM-Business with FileMaker Pro (Advanced) can also be customized by the user and extended with external FileMaker solutions. All versions of gFM-Business allow access through external FileMaker databases with the user accounts set up. Within the framework of customizing and open licenses, the gFM-Business application itself can also be adapted and extended as required. In this way, solutions are created that optimally map any operational processes.
More than 600 pages of documentation for customization
gFM-Business Custom Professional and the open license are delivered with several documents for customizing and extending the ERP system, which document all tables, fields, scripts and custom functions in detail.
PDF, 34 pages
PDF, 400 pages
PDF, 193 pages
