What is a database?
A database (database system, DBS) is classically understood to be a software program with which large amounts of data can be stored and managed efficiently, clearly and without contradiction. A database system usually consists of a database management system (DBMS) and the data to be managed (DB), also known as the database.
In a classic SQL database, these two parts are usually separate - a program (DBMS) is executed on a client, which accesses SQL databases (DB) that are provided on an external server.
Separation of database management system and database
In
FileMaker-databases, these two parts can usually be found within a database file (.fmp12). In this context, the database management system refers to all controlling elements such as scripts, layouts or custom functions. The database itself is provided by the data tables it contains.
In FileMaker, the database management system and database are not separated by default. However, this procedure has a decisive advantage, as only the DBMS has to be updated and the pure databases do not have to be changed. In this way, program updates can be carried out much more easily and quickly.
In order to realize the separation of database management system and database in FileMaker, there have been several approaches for this purpose for several years. The best-known approach is to create sufficient (usually hundreds) replacement fields in each table, which have no function when they are created and are numbered consecutively. In addition, several replacement tables are created, which also contain hundreds of fields with all available field types. In this way, the replacement fields and replacement tables can be accessed when the software is expanded - an adaptation of the database management system is then only necessary in rare cases - for example, if two tables are to be linked together in a special way.
For some time now, it has been possible to use the
MBS FileMaker Plugins create new fields in a FileMaker database during runtime. This can also be an approach to separate data in FileMaker from the DBMS.
Separation of data and DBMS in gFM-Business
In the
Business software gFM-Business data and the database management system are largely separate. After most adaptations and extensions, it is not necessary to update data tables during an update, but only if changes have also been made to a data table.
More questions about FileMaker? It's quicker in person.
As part of our
Coaching and training services we will be happy to inform you personally about the FileMaker functions you need for the development of your FileMaker solution. Of course, we will be happy to respond to your individual wishes. Billing is individual and fair in 15-minute increments. Pay conveniently by bank transfer or PayPal.
