Learn FileMaker Pro 2024 The Comprehensive Guide to Building Custom Databases

FileMaker Pro is a development platform from Claris International Inc., a subsidiary of Apple Inc. The software makes it easy for everyone to create powerful, multi-user, cross-platform, relational database applications.

This book navigates the reader through the software in a clear and logical manner, with each chapter building on the previous one. After an initial review of the user environment and application basics, the book delves into a deep exploration of the integrated development environment, which seamlessly combines the full stack of schema, business logic, and interface layers into a unified visual programming experience. Everything beginners need to get started is covered, along with advanced material that seasoned professionals will appreciate.

Written by a professional developer with decades of real-world experience, "Learn FileMaker Pro 2024" is a comprehensive learning and reference guide. Join millions of users and developers worldwide in achieving a new level of workflow efficiency with FileMaker.

For This New Edition

This third edition includes clearer lessons and more examples, making it easier than ever to start planning, building, and deploying a custom database solution. It covers dozens of new and modified features introduced in versions 19.1 to 19.6, as well as the more recent 2023 (v20) and 2024 (v21) releases. Whatever your level of experience, this book has something new for you!

What You’ll Learn

· Plan and create custom tables, fields, and relationships

· Write calculations using built-in and custom functions

· Build layouts with dynamic objects, themes, and custom menus

· Automate tasks with scripts and link them to objects and interface events

· Keep database files secure and healthy

· Integrate with external systems using ODBC, cURL, and the FM API

· Deploy solutions to share with desktop, iOS, and web clients

· Learn about summary reports, dynamic object references, and transactions

· Delve into artificial intelligence with CoreML, OpenAI, and Semantic Finds

Who This Book Is For

Hobbyist developers, professional consultants, IT staff

Part 1 - Using FileMaker.- Chapter 1 Introducing FileMaker.- Chapter 2 Launching the Application.- Chapter 3 Exploring a Database Window.- Chapter 4 Working with Records.- Chapter 5 Transferring Data.- Part 2 Defining Database Structure.- Chapter 6 Creating a Database File.- Chapter 7 Building Tables.- Chapter 8 Defining Fields.- Chapter 9 Forming Relationships.- Chapter 10 Managing Containers.- Chapter 11 Defining Value Lists.- Part 3: Writing Formulas and Using Functions.- Chapter 12 Writing Formulas.- Chapter 13 Exploring Built-in Functions .- Chapter 14 Using JSON.- Chapter 15 Creating Custom Functions.- Chapter 16 Introducing ExecuteSQL- Part 4 Designing User Interfaces.- Chapter 17 Introducing Layouts.- Chapter 18 Getting Started with Layouts.- Chapter 19 Surveying Layout Panes.- Chapter 20 Creating Layout Objects.- Chapter 21 Manipulating Objects.- Chapter 22 Using Themes and Styles.- Chapter 23 Customizing Menus.- Part 5 Automating with Scripts.- Chapter 24 Introduction to Scripting.- Chapter 25 Common Scripting Tasks.- Chapter 26 Debugging Scripts.- Chapter 27 Using Script Triggers.- Chapter 28 Extending Features with Plugins.- Part 6 Deploying and Maintaining Solutions.- Chapter 29 Managing Database Security.- Chapter 30 using Developer Tools.- Chapter 31 Maintaining Healthy Files.- Chapter 32 Deploying a Solution.- Chapter 33 Interfacing External Systems.- Part 7 Exploring Advanced Topics.- Chapter 34 Building a Summary Report.- Chapter 35 Keeping Object References Dynamic.- Chapter 36 Using Transactions.- Chapter 37 Using Machine Learning.- Chapter 38 Leveraging Artificial Intelligence.

Mark Conway Munro is an author and software developer. After being introduced to FileMaker in 1988, Mark began using AppleScript and FileMaker for information management and process automation tasks. In 1994, he founded Write Track Media, a computer consultancy firm that develops custom database and workflow automation solutions. With an unwavering commitment to freeing human focus from repetitive tasks, Mark designs time-saving systems that allow his clients to pursue higher levels of productivity. Among his many accomplishments, Mark is recognized for writing AppleScript: Developer Reference (2010, Wiley) and the widely acclaimed Learn FileMaker Pro series (2017, 2021, 2024, Apress).