Company and Subcontractor Management

Company and Subcontractor Management

Susan Fennema, Chaos Eradicating Officer (CEO) of Beyond the Chaos, and I discuss the ins and outs of company and subcontractor management in the third video in our 6 video series.  There will be three more videos in the New Year.

 

Today, we talk about communications, on boarding, and helping subcontractors manage their time and obligations:

[embed]https://youtu.be/P_YwvHZzqxg[/embed]

What are the communication requirements for the team?

• Should a sub speak to a client without you or a team member present?


• What internal software tools does your team use that a sub might need to be involved in and how much do you WANT them in it? (Slack, Basecamp Chat, etc)


• Separation between employee-conversations and sub conversations


• Recommend against ever giving out personal cell phone numbers - set up conference calls or use Slack to call out


• Consider setting up a company email address that subs use to communicate to clients or all written communications go through project management tool

How do you bring a sub on board?

• Explain the company structure


• Training vs jumping in


• Senior vs junior devs


• On boarding process (and off boarding process)


• rReviewing work before sending to the client (Q/A)

As a sub, how do I manage working with different clients and keeping time obligations?

• Blocks of time on the calendar


• Confidentiality - especially when working with some of the same people at other shops


• Multiple project management packages? Set them as your startup pages on the web and go to your tasks for that client


• Explain what happens if a client puts something on hold


• Ask for more work if you have a gap


• Understand expectations and COMMUNICATE - over communicate your availability and how you can be contacted

Join Susan and I in the New Year with three new videos:

• Communicating with your Project Manager


• Meeting Expectations 


• Being Responsible as a Developer

Hiring Subcontractors - Setting Expectations

Hiring Subcontractors - Setting Expectations

This week Susan Fennema and I get into the details of Hiring Subcontractors in our second video: Setting Expectations

[embed]https://youtu.be/AGP7bFV91NE[/embed]

What to Expect

What forms should a subcontractor sign before beginning work - and can you even hire a subcontractor?

• Why you ned an NDA


• Why you need a subcontractor agreement


• Non Compete: they can’t work for your client for at least a year


• 1099 or W2


• Why subcontractors should be working for others as well, not only you


• They need to not be full time


• You can hire as a part time employee, instead


• If you hire as an employee (even as part-time), you have the different state’s workmans comp, taxes, etc to take care of (but Quickbooks can help

How are you going to track their time or pay them?

• What software, if any, do you use a software to track time to the client


• How will the sub access it


• Do you want invoices, or do you just pay from your time-track software


• Will you do flat fees from subs or time-based


• How quickly do you pay?


• How to handle training, coming up to speed, and executing for billing

What kind of commitment do you need from them?

• Be clear about how many hours you need from them (and expect to get less)


• Set expected availability to answer questions/attend meetings


• Talk to them about ghosting - be proactive

Thanks for joining us today and be on the lookout next Monday, December 18th, for the third video in our series:

Company & Subcontractor Management

The Function-Separation Model, 5 Lessons Learned by Almost Dying

A novel twist on the Separation model:  The Function-Separation Model

John Renfrew, Director at Attitude in the UK, wrote about using the new FileMaker 16 Card window function in a unique way:  Add new functionality by calling a separate function file that does all the work (you send it parameters), returns the info to the calling file, and then goes away.  He calls it the Function-Separation Model:

Keeping the functionality in a single place means that when improvements or fixes are added, they can be inherited by every single file that uses the Function-Separation file without any alterations to the calling file. The method outlined is also lightweight in your solution and leaves little visible trace of where the functionality originates.

Free Demo File

There is a free demo file at the link to help you get your head around this concept.  Basically, to add new functionality, you would do what most programmers in other computers languages already do:  call an external function with parameters, let that function do it's magic, grab the results, and process them using JSON parsing tools and such.

This makes it easier to add functionality to already existing solutions, but also raises questions about data security:  How do you limit who can call the action or see the results?  And does it open a path back to the main solution?

I like the path this is taking, and want to see more along this line.  FileMaker is changing - mostly catching up - and it's fun to be part of the experience.

Source: (19) The Function-Separation Model for FileMaker development | LinkedIn

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5 Lessons Learned by Almost Dying

Inspiring, spiritual Tedx video of a woman who miraculously survived cancer on her death bed. She went from there to healed in very short order and is now sharing her experience:

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhcJNJbRJ6U[/embed]

The five lessons she shares are worth your time.

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How people treat you is their karma; how you react is yours.

Wayne Dyer

Managing SubContractors (Videos)

Managing SubContractors and Project Management

Join Susan Fennema – Chaos Eradicating Officer, Beyond the Chaos , Brandon Hayes (Director of Business Relations – Kalos Consulting, Inc.) and me in the first of six videos on Managing SubContractors and Project Management.

The video series started today on Facebook at 11 Eastern...and I have shared it on YouTube, as well:

https://youtu.be/NJ5GtgGutlk

In the first video, Brandon joins Susan and me to discuss finding, vetting, and integrating subcontractors or employees into your business.  Among other things, we talk about the following:

Vetting: Finding and onboarding subcontractors

1. How do I know who I am looking for?:
   
   1. Think through what your desired qualifications are:
      
      1. Do you need someone Certified?
      
      
      2. How accessible do you want them to be? Remote? Come in to an office? Moonlight or dedicated contractor?
      
      
      3. What other skills/languages do they need experience in?
      
      
      4. Balance budget vs skill
      
      
   
   


2. Great, so where do I find this person?
   
   1. Kalos has the luxury of referencing a network of contractors and developers, but if you don’t, go where the developers are:
      
      1. FM User groups
      
      
      2. Job boards (though we know that the best employees are not there)
      
      
      3. Networking/referrals
      
      
   
   


3. So I’ve found someone. Now what?
   
   1. Communication, communication, communication
      
      1. Make sure you set a clear outline of what you’re expecting from them, when you have deadlines, when they’ll be paid, do you provide an FMP license or do they need to bring their own?
      
      
   
   
   2. Backend setup (preview for next week)
      
      1. Paperwork, contracts, NDA, payroll
      
      
   
   
   3. Sound like a lot? Kalos will take care of it for you
   
   

And lot's more.  Watch the video to learn more.

Join us next week for Part 2

Join Susan and me next Monday at 11 EST for the second video in the 6 part series when we discuss:

Setting expectations:

What forms should a subcontractor sign before beginning work - and can you even hire a subcontractor

• NDA


• Subcontractor agreement (non-compete?) They can’t work for your client for at least a year


• 1099 or W2


• Full or Part Time


• Part time employees?


• If you hire as an employee (even as part-time), you have the different state’s workman's comp, taxes, etc to take care of (but Quickbooks can help)

How are you going to track their time or pay them?

• Do you use a software to track time to the client (Slack, Trello, FileMaker?)


• How will the sub access it


• Do you want invoices, or do you just pay from your time-track software


• Will you do flat fees from subs or time-based


• How quickly do you pay?

What kind of commitment do you need from them?

• Be clear about how many hours you need from them (and expect to get less)


• Expected availability to answer questions/attend meetings


• Ghosting (as in disappearing)

FileMaker cURL

FileMaker cURL

One of the most powerful and, probably, least appreciated features of FileMaker 16 is the support of cURL.  So what is cURL? Here's what Wikipedia has to say:

cURL is a computer software project providing a library and command-line tool for transferring data using various protocols. The cURL project produces two products, libcurl and cURL. It was first released in 1997. The name originally stood for "see URL".

All of which means you can now use some native cURL to get and send files over the internet.  Combine that with the FileMaker 16 JSON functions and it opens a whole new world of connectivity without using custom functions or plugins.

Steve Winters, of Matatiro Solutions, presented on FileMaker cURL at FileMaker DevCon 2017.  And if you need to get or send files, or connect easily to online services, or other communications with the world outside FileMaker, watch this video.  Download the example files and work along with him in the video.  Read up on some documentation...and save yourself a lot of time and frustration, because Winter gives you incredible code AND shows you all the 'gotchas' involved with making connections like these:

 

https://youtu.be/_15JcmQ_JiQ

Practical Examples

Winters provides code and guidance for several different services:

• Connect to Google Calendars using OAuth (the open standard for access delegation, which allows you a way grant website or application access without giving away passwords)


• Connect to Dropbox to upload and download files


• Simple synch of databases using the FileMaker Data API (REST).  Or you can use fmREST, as well.

All of these techniques are basically the same, but it's the exceptions that lead to a lot of frustration and "creative language", as Winters calls it.  And all of it is in the demo file available at the link below.  And everything you learn will take you further down the path of connecting to the thousands of API's available in the rest of the digital world.

INN004 - Explore cURL for FileMaker - Steve Winter

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Success is simply a matter of luck. Ask any failure.

Earl Wilson

FileMaker on Android as an App?

Do you want to use FileMaker on Android as an App?

It's tantalizingly close to real, but might still slip away.

If you want or need FileMaker on Android, get over to LiveCode Native now.  Kevin Miller, founder of LiveCode and LiveCode for FM, needs your help to finance this venture.  LiveCode already offers a plugin for FileMaker that greatly expands its capabilities.  And now they want to make FileMaker on Android, as an app, a reality.

In a nutshell, here's what's you will be able to do:

•  Build beautiful, powerful, flexible native apps from your FileMaker layouts


• Synchronize data perfectly as your app goes online and offline


• Deploy to Android, iOS, Windows, Mac and Linux (not just to the Android OS)


• Keep your data within FileMaker server or cloud


• Access native objects and the operating system on each device

Here's a screenshot of your choices of standalone apps you will be able to generate:

Check it out:

https://youtu.be/dZfWO0tkvic

Android OS is the Elephant in the room

Did you know Android has a market share of  86%?  That is a huge, untapped FileMaker market. And this might be the key to unlock it.

It's an all or nothing proposition, so if you or your clients will benefit from FileMaker on Android (or Linux, Windows, iOS, or Mac), get on board before the 24th of November.  Reach out to people you know. There's a full money back guarantee if you are not happy at the end of the pre-release program, so your exposure is limited. It's not too late to realize see FileMaker on Android.

LCFM Native – LiveCode for FM

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I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.

Jimmy Dean

Excel Exports using XML and XSLT

Excel Exports using XML and XSLT

All FileMaker developers spend time figuring out how to export FileMaker data in a usable format for their clients.  Kevin Frank had a series of posts on just that subject (link in the next paragraph below).  There is way to export data from FileMaker using XML and XSLT, but it's not easy nor intuitive.  It is powerful, though.

Kudos to Beverly Voth for tackling – and taming – such a difficult subject, and to Kevin Frank for letting Beverly post on his great site, FileMakerHacks.com.  So what does this post by Beverly talk about?  Exporting data from FileMaker to Excel using XML and XSLT:

This is a follow-up to the User-Friendly Excel Exports series by Kevin Frank, but using an XML export along with various XSLT to give you .csv or .xls (for Excel). The first demo is a quick export (to CSV – comma-separated values) using an XSLT to help explain the relationship with FileMaker Pro XML export. How an XSLT style sheet reads that data to transform it into another text format (.csv or .xls) is also explained throughout the article and in comments within the XSLT. The demos will get increasingly more complex, but ultimately more “user-friendly”

It's a bit of a long read, but worth the effort if you need (or want) to export Excel data in a much more usable format for your clients.  If you don't have time now, scan it quickly, download the example file, and bookmark it for later.  When that call comes wanting better exports from FileMaker to Excel, you'll be ready to handle it.

Here's what you'll find

Among other things, it includes a free downloadable example file and instructions on using Microsoft's Excel Markup Language (XML) to format the .xlsx spreadsheet while exporting.  So why would you want to do that?  Let's hear what Beverly has to say:

So, why would we use the Excel Markup Language (XML) to make these kinds of exports? One answer has several parts: Styling, Freeze Panes, multiple worksheets, formulas and more. These are all possible with more complex XSLT (and even with values exported from FileMaker). Our export could be grouped (via the XSLT) to show summaries by Organization or Payment Type, for example.

Add multiple worksheets, grouped data with summaries, styling formulas, and more – depending upon how deep you want to dive into the XML code, of course.

And there's a section on using a repeating field in FileMaker to make custom headers in your Excel report!

Source: Excel Exports using XML and XSLT | FileMakerHacks

FileMaker Document Management and UX

FileMaker Document Management

You may have missed this great post by Nicolas Hunter on FileMaker Document Management on LinkedIn recently. Are you on LinkedIn?  If not, get busy and make an account – you are missing out on great business resource for learning and connecting with other business professionals.

Back to FileMaker Document Management: Richard Carlton Consulting offers a free, basic FileMaker Document Management database and a video showing the features.  The free sample database is a stripped down version of their fully functional database that is available for only $19.

Check out this video on FileMaker document management features:

https://youtu.be/h70az_CTMSE

Free Design Database, too

And while you're there, you can download a very nice free FileMaker design database that shows off a full-featured set of layout Design, layout objects and components any FileMaker developer will find useful (and it includes the scripts, as well). I like the features found in this file and will be using them moving forward.

Carlton made a longer video on this free database back in June and it's worth watching:

https://youtu.be/J7ZI79n9fwA

And don't forget to give a hat tip to Richard Carlton for making these great resources available for free to the FileMaker community.

Source: (16) UI/UX Design is your FileMaker Pro Custom App path to success. | LinkedIn

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A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing.

George Bernard Shaw

FileMakerProGurus Started Here...

FileMaker to Amazon Database

FileMaker to Amazon Database

I've blogged for four and a half years now, and in the past two years I've seen an incredible increase in both the quantity and quality of blogging in the FileMaker world.  I've also noticed better posts, better writing, and posts on an incredible breadth of subjects - web connectivity, design, tips and tricks, exploiting new features in creative ways, and more (kudos to FileMaker for moving the platform along at such a rapid and productive pace – it's easier to write when we have so many new features added every year).  The other thing I've noticed is the continued sharing of hard-earned knowledge to the greater FileMaker community.

And it's not just sharing that is notable - it's the quality of what is shared that is remarkable:  Not just the code examples, but often a completely functional free FileMaker example file that allows the lucky recipient to easily do something that would normally take a lot of blood, sweat, tears and time to do on their own.  Which brings me to the subject of my post today.

Making it Easy

Brendan McBride, of DB Services, wrote a blog post in September (and I missed it then, dang it!) about connecting FileMaker to Amazon Marketplace Web Services (Amazon MWS). And included a free FileMaker example database (download at the link below) that does all the heavy lifting for any FileMaker developer looking to make that connection.

And to top it all off, he made a short (6 minutes) video showing how to use it:

https://youtu.be/T4eZmaTtQxo

To put this in perspective, McBride just took most of the pain out of connecting FileMaker to Amazon MWS.  FileMaker developers and clients, existing and potential, will benefit. Here's why:

Authenticating with Amazon MWS is a bit tricky:  In a solution we are just finishing for a client, authenticating turned out to be the hardest part.  There were other challenges (locating, downloading and parsing custom engraved information in zipped json files comes to mind), but nothing happens without the authentication. And updating records on Amazon is not as straightforward as one would expect, but don't worry, the example file does that, as well.

So check out the video and the blog post, download the file, and take a look.  And thank Brandon for his hard work next time you get a chance.

Source: FileMaker Amazon Integration | DB Services

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All I ask is the chance to prove that money can't make me happy.

Spike Milligan 

 

FileMaker 16 Progress Bar, Environment and Motivation

FileMaker 16 Progress Bar in a Card Window

Vince Dolan of the Support Group shows a very slick way to easily build two types of FileMaker 16 progress bars using a Card window, a data viewer, and some basic html. There isn't a downloadable file, but this is simple enough to put it together from the video:

https://youtu.be/X8cd8_aVmDs

Jazz it up

If you want to snazzy it up a bit, check out these links at w3schools for some help:

Basic Progress Bars

Complete Progress Bar HTML Reference

Don't overlook the Try it Yourself demo, either.

Simple and functional, or get fancy. Either way, you have an easy way to add a FileMaker 16 progress bar.

And nothing would stop you from adding it as a Webviewer on a standard page, either.  Just be sure to freeze your window so it always displays.

Source: How to Create a Progress Bar in FileMaker Pro

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Motivation is Overvalued.  Environment Often Matters More.

James Clear rarely disappoints with his research into human behavior.  And this time is no exception:

It can be tempting to blame failure on a lack of willpower or a scarcity of talent, and to attribute success to hard work, effort, and grit.

To be sure, those things matter. What is interesting, however, is that if you examine how human behavior has been shaped over time, you discover that motivation (and even talent) is often overvalued. In many cases, the environment matters more.

Let me share an example that surprised me when I first learned of it.

Clear talks about one of my favorite reads,  Guns, Germs, and Steel, by scientist Jared Diamond .  In his book, Diamond talks about the differences that occur due to different environments, from a macro down to a micro level.  Clear discusses some of Diamond's finding, and gives you three ways to design your environment to maximize your success.  A must read for those struggling to overcome a bad environment.  Or to those just seeking a way to improve their own.

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All wish to possess knowledge, but few, comparatively speaking, are willing to pay the price.

Juvenal

Web Viewer Integrations - FileMaker

Web Viewer Integrations into a FileMaker Custom App

Jeremy Brown is well known in the FileMaker community for his work with Web Viewer integrations:  integrating javascript and more into FileMaker web viewers, writing a great free FileMaker demo database, and pushing the boundaries of the web viewer in FileMaker.

Brown presented at FileMaker DevCon 2017 (video below) on his favorite (at least I assume it is) topic, and now has a newer version of his free file for download, as well.

Video Objectives

His objectives for the presentation are pretty straightforward:

• Learn the best practices of web integrations into a custom FileMaker app


• Learn the basics of manipulating an integration to fit their own custom app


• Learn how to implement web viewer integrations into any app


• Undertand how to get an integration to callback to FileMaker

And, most importantly, get excited about using a web viewer integration.

That last goal is critical:  The hardest part of embracing a new technology is the learning curve.  Jeremy's presentation combined with the free download file greatly reduce that curve.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpRU1mrjSWQ&feature=youtu.be[/embed]

Use Cases

So, where will you find this concept useful? How about this list for a partial answer:

• Data Presentation


• User Interface improvements


• Menus


• Photo displays


• Calendars


• Charting (lots of good stuff here)


• Utility


• Media


• Audio

Things you'll learn

Here's just some of the topics covered in his DevCon presentation:

Standardization of an integration
Data-gathering process
Manipulating an integration
Pushing an integration
Extending this concept

What makes is easy - and powerful

Each module in the database is broken into the following components:

• An HTML template


• CSS template


• Javascript Template


• Data Fields

The way it is setup, each part works with the others, and each can be manipulated and modified as necessary without breaking the others.  This is the way web developers work, and it's a powerful method that allows for quicker development and troubleshooting.  For example, different people can work on different portions (HTML, JavaScript, CSS, or Data) at the same time without affecting the others.

Integrate into your FileMaker App

Jeremy actually shows how to export an integration from his example file and integrate it into your solution.  You can't really ask for more.

So don't wait...there is a lot to learn.  Start by watching the video and downloading the file.  Then start playing with it.  Jeremy did most of the heavy lifting, so there's no reason to put if off!

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Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.

Charles R. Swindoll

FileMaker 16: Artificial Intelligence and JSON

FileMaker 16: Artificial Intelligence and JSON

FileMaker 16 and Artificial Intelligence from Joris Arts of Clickworks:

Watch this video to discover how easy it is now to integrate FileMaker with Artificial Intelligence using the new features of FileMaker 16. We use an AI for image recognition with a FileMaker custom app for a commercial casting bureau. Learn how in this example a robot completely takes over the data entry and allows to explore the images in a way that was not possible before.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56FhLKRbk7U[/embed]

This is pretty impressive stuff: The images are inspected by a robot service, Clarifai.com, and it offers plenty of different services (model recognition, prevent nude photos from being posted to a forum, and more.  And the basic levels of service are free – up to 5000 photos per month!

Joris provides a free downloadable file at the link - don't miss this one!

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From Anders Monsen of Soliant: Ways to use JSON in FileMaker

There are both external and internal uses for JSON.

Knowing how to create JSON is a requirement for using many web services. Combined with cURL features in the Insert from URL script step, you can now send JSON built from FileMaker records.

Within FileMaker, JSON could be used to handle multiple script parameters, store users preferences in a single object instead of across multiple fields, gather changes in an audit log, and even duplicate records including data in portals. Imagine the possibilities.

This post is loaded with usable information and includes a free FileMaker downloadable file at the link.

Source: How to Create JSON in FileMaker 16 - A Guide from Certified Developers

Superfast Reporting with PSOS and Virtual Lists

Faster Reports with PSOS and Virtual Lists

Anders Monsen's DevCon 2017 presentation is loaded with great tips about PSOS and Virtual Lists, something your clients need from time to time. He doesn't stop there, however, as he combines the use of ExecuteSQL to really speed up reporting.

If you haven't heard of Virtual Lists, it's a technique for easily grabbing data from multiple sources, saving it into global variables, and parsing the information into an unrelated table.  It's a powerful technique that free a developer from some of the constraints of normal FileMaker reporting.

Here a partial list of the subjects covered in the video:

• How to grab easily parsed data using ExecuteSQL (hint: don't use the default delimiter)


• How to build and test scripts in PSOS


• Tips from the audience on things to test for when running PSOS


• How to store the data in a global variable and parse it into the virtual table on the fly


• How to add headers to the virtual table report


• Formatting options to make the report look better

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzukC1uoB2s&feature=youtu.be[/embed]

There are four free FileMaker downloadable files available, as well.

If you haven't built virtual lists before, watch this video and learn how to build powerful reports using PSOS and Virtual Lists.  If you have, watch this video to learn how to optimize what you already know.

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People who think they know everything are a great annoyance to those of us who do.

Isaac Asimov

FileMaker API Integration - Salvatore Colangelo

FileMaker API Integration: How to Interpret an API: From start to working code

This DevCon presentation is the one I've been waiting for: Salvatore Colangelo's presentation on connecting FileMaker to an API.  Colangelo uses the metaphor of a recipe in his presentation, and the same recipe is followed every time you want to connect to an API:

• Understand the Authentication


• Identify the Endpoints and the HTTP Methods


• Construct the Body parameters and the HTTP Headers Submit the request


• Parse the response and the HTTP Headers

Free FileMaker Downloadable File

This video is packed with useful information, and don't miss the free download file and blog post here with explicit instructions for connecting to Amazon services, something that is hard to figure out.

Check out the video (there is a partial list below of what you will find in the video):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5kes4lX-fw&feature=youtu.be

Toolbox:

• FileMaker 16 Insert from URL


• FileMaker 16 JSON Parsing


• A powerful text editor like TextMate


• HTTP clients like Postman or Generator

Documents

A discussion of different types of web API documents and some of the "gotcha's" you'll encounter.

Structure

Learn about HTTP methods, Authentication Types, and Endpoint Styles (all critical to successful connections)

Lots of advice

The most important advice:  Test your FileMaker API Integration code.  Test, test, and test some more.  Then test again.  I have found this to be an indispensable part of the process.

Other Tools:

Postman (used by Colangelo)

Todd Geist's free FileMaker Program, Generator (this tool is awesome, by the way).

My Two Cents

In my experience, the hardest part of all of this is figuring out the things the API developers don't tell you.  Many times they assume you know things they know.  Other times they share the info, but leave out a tiny piece of info.  Or they show you how to connect with PHP, Ruby, Python, etc., which is of little use to FileMaker developers.

So make use of their tech support, even if it is halfway around the world, is not very friendly, and has never heard of FileMaker. You'll usually find the problem is with a Header (or lack thereof), a minor typing mistake, of something similar. But with the right tools and perseverance, you'll get there.  And that is a great feeling.

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The fact that an opinion has been widely held is no evidence whatever that it is not utterly absurd.

Bertrand Russell

FileMaker DevCon 2017 - Jarvis CRM

Jarvis CRM

I interviewed Joe and James Scarpetta at their DevCon 2017 exhibition booth and learned more about Jarvis CRM.

Joe Scarpetta  is man behind Jarvis, a powerful and well built Customer Relations Manager (CRM).

What makes Jarvis CRM unique?

Among other things, it takes full advantage of FileMaker 16 Card Windows, JSON, and other new features. It fully unlocked, easily integrated into other solutions, and packed full of features:

• Project Management


• CRM for companies and contacts


• A new calendar


• Email integration with 360Works Email plugin


• Quotes


• Invoicing and payments


• Products and services


• Purchase Orders


• Marketing campaigns


• MailChimp integration


• Team Dashboard


• Reports and data visualization

Check out the interview here:

https://youtu.be/BsuZHTLNMig

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No man has a good enough memory to be a successful liar.

Abraham Lincoln

Tableau and FileMaker (Video)

Tableau and FileMaker

Luke Rochester's presentation at DevCon 2017 shows how to build a dashboard in FileMaker using Tableau - in under 10 minutes!

Sounds great, but what is Tableau?

According to Wikipedia, Tableau Software is a software company headquartered in Seattle, Washington, United States which produces interactive data visualization products focused on business intelligence.   Not very helpful.

From the Tableau website: Tableau helps people transform data into actionable insights. Explore with limitless visual analytics. Build dashboards and perform ad hoc analyses in just a few clicks. Share your work with anyone and make an impact on your business. From global enterprises to early-stage startups and small businesses, people everywhere use Tableau to see and understand their data.  Not much better...

How about this:  It's a powerful tool that helps visualize data in new ways.

I need a Tableau presentation to show me what Tableau is.  Just kidding...

Rochester shows how to use the free version of Tableau to build very powerful FileMaker based Dashboards, resulting in new ways for your clients to see their data.  Which makes those dashboards valuable to your client.

What you'll see in this video:

• How to connect FileMaker to Tableau


• Learn Tableau's terminology (Dimensions (think FileMaker text fields), Elements (number fields), Measures, and more)


• Basic Tableau usage


• Interdependent Charting (changes in one chart effect others)


• Story boarding (very powerful feature)


• How to build a dashboard in less than 10 minutes


• The Business Intelligence Stack compared to FileMaker with Tableau


• How Tableau makes it possible to do What If analysis on the fly

So take an hour plus and expand your horizons by integrating Tableau and FileMaker.  It is worth your time:

https://youtu.be/k-mieKCWfDo

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A satisfied customer is the best business strategy of all.

Michael LeBoeuf

 

 

FileMaker DevCon 2017 - Henrique Bilbao of HiMaker

Henrique Bilbao of HiMaker

Meet Henrique Bilbao, the founder of Brazil's only Platinum level FileMaker business:  HiMaker.  Henrique is a mover and a shaker, very high energy, and is always looking for ways to improve his business model. Among other things, Henrique made several changes in the past year and watched his business grow:

• Leveraging the use of sales partners instead of a sales force


• Has redesigned his presentation and closing techniques to increase sales


• Changed to a per user model combined with a subscription model


• Improved use of project management techniques


• Asks his clients to sell for him

https://youtu.be/NIPV29T4MxY

The Olympics and FileMaker

Henrique's firm developed a FileMaker solution to handle hotel bookings for the Olympics last year, collecting information from hundreds of countries in almost every format imaginable.  Imagine the challenge of dealing with all the different formats and all the different languages.  HiMaker and FileMaker handled it all.

Artificial Intelligence

Henrique is also integrating IBM's Watson with FileMaker, too.  In you haven't heard of Watson, here is IBM's short description:

Watson can understand all forms of data, interact naturally with people, and learn and reason, at scale.

Henrique believes Watson is the wave of the future when it comes to integration with FileMaker. His team integrated Watson with two different solutions so far:  interpreters and dentists.  Look for more information on integrating Watson next year from Henrique.

---

More business is lost every year through neglect than through any other cause.

Rose Kennedy

FileMaker and Amazon Web Services (AWS)

FileMaker and Amazon Web Services

Mike Duncan and Bill Heizer of Soliant Consulting presented at DevCon 2017 on FileMaker and Amazon Web Services (AWS).  First, kudos to both for tackling a large and complex topic in less than an hour.  By necessity, they had to take a high level view, meaning it's not really a good primer for learning how to do all they show.  But it is a great roadmap of features and capabilities.

If you plan to use AWS (or are just thinking about it), you need to watch this video:

Developers:  You'll get a decent overview of what it takes to start using AWS.

Everyone else:  You'll get an decent overview of the capabilities of AWS and how they will help your organization.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AbE1QX_Z6n4&feature=youtu.be[/embed]

Topics covered in this video:

• Making an AWS account


• An overview of the terminology


• An overview of the various AWS services


• Configuring an EC2 instance


• An overview of using VPC and other security options


• Identity and Access Management


• Pricing examples

AppStream 2 ( at the 40:25 mark)

This new Terminal Service type program has huge possibilities for Remote FileMaker Users.  Essentially, it provides full FileMaker capability via a web browser with these capabilities:

• Producing and printing a pdf report


• Sharing items from your hard drive to a shared storage area


• Opening multiple windows at one time


• Plugin usage


• It's fast

My initial take:  if the cost is reasonable (and from the info provided it seems to be), this gives fast, full featured access to a FileMaker solution via a web browser.  And it is way more powerful than WebDirect. I need to do more research on this, but the possibilities are exciting.

---

Adapt or perish, now as ever, is nature's inexorable imperative.

H. G. Wells

soSIMPLE Calendar - FileMaker DevCon 2017

soSIMPLE Calendar

As a developer, deciding what you will build versus what you should buy (or what is available for free) is often a critical decision. Make the wrong choice might result in wasted time, an inferior solution, or a product that won't work on all platforms - Client, Go, WebDirect, or server.

A calendar is a great example: Should you build your own, us a free one or buy one and add it to your solution? If you build your own, will you be able to get it done on time and working correctly?  Will it integrate with other calendars like google or Outlook?  Check out the soSimple Calendar: a powerful calendar that works with client, server, Go and on the web. It's been extensively tested for compatibility and functionality, and might be the best solution for you and your client.  Check out what Ken and Lauren have to say:

https://youtu.be/0M8_x9HNLjU

It's not really a bolton solution

Ken says it's not a bolt on calendar: instead it's look and feel is as if it was embedded, and it works everywhere you need it to work:

FileMaker Pro
FileMaker Go
FileMaker WebDirect
on any smartphone
on any tablet
on your iPad
on your web site (WebDirect NOT required)
as an iCal subscription (NO extra cost!)
standalone, or with FileMaker Server
write once – deploy anywhere

Give it a test drive: It may be just what you need.

---

Some cause happiness wherever they go; others whenever they go.

Oscar Wilde

FileMaker DevCon 2017 360works Interview

FileMaker DevCon 2017 360works Interview

Every FileMaker developer with more than a week's worth of experience knows about 360works.  I have been helped by many, if not all, of the fine people who work there (Charis, it's always nice to hear your voice when I call for help).  And at DevCon 2017, I finally met and interviewed three of them I have spoken with in the last year:  Meet Arnold, Sterling, and Charis:

https://youtu.be/4C9LLp-XuQE

Lots of New Stuff

The staff at 360works has been busy in the past year, cranking out a major update to their plugin platform and new versions of their existing products.

The newest product in their lineup is 360Deploy:

360Deploy: Updating an already deployed database? Migrating data? Adding improvements to a live database? It can all be a pain, but it doesn't have to be. Let the experts at 360Works introduce you to automated rollouts! Say goodbye to the complexities of the separation model, skip the tedious data imports, and stop risking data loss. In this session learn how 360Works newest tool, 360Deploy, makes it a simple operation for you to roll out updated database versions to FileMaker Server: yours, your clients, or your vertical market customers.

Here's the latest product listing from 360works, directly from their website:

MirrorSync	Easy to use synchronization tool that links FileMaker Server to FileMaker Pro, FileMaker Go, MySQL, Oracle and more
Zulu	Sync your events across devices, calendars, and more
CloudMail	Send and track email marketing campaigns
DocuBin	Cross-platform tool for document and digital asset management
SuperContainer	The ultimate document storage tool for FileMaker
Plastic	Payment processing plug-in, now featuring: payment tokenization, subscriptions, ACH, and much more in Plastic 2.
Scribe	Read and write PDF, Word, and Excel files
ScriptMaster Advanced	Adds many new functions & create custom plug-ins
Email	Send and receive text and HTML emails in FileMaker
FTPeek	FTP upload and download from your FileMaker database
Web Services Manager	Publish FileMaker scripts as XML Web Services
RemoteScripter	Trigger scripts on FileMaker Pro from the web or IWP
WebAssistant	Access internet resources, URLs, and fill out web forms
JDBC	SQL access with JDBC Compatibility
Charts	Easy-to-use charting for FileMaker
AdminAnywhere	Administer FileMaker Server from a browser or smartphone
Portfolio Bundle	All of our products for one low price!

Where's Jesse?

Some you may be wondering: Where was Jesse Barnum during all of this?  If you look at the right side of the video, you'll see the back of his white work coat!  I stopped by the booth several times, but Jesse was always busy talking, being interviewed, or off demonstrating a product or offering.  I'll catch up with him next year.

---

Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened.

Dr. Seuss

FileMaker Goodies

FileMaker Goodies

I've been collecting interesting links here and there, saving them up to share.  Here goes in no particular order:

Douglas Alder sends web data directly to FileMaker (with a free FileMaker Example File at the link):

Ever wish there was a way to ‘Send to FileMaker’ from your Web Browser?

Turns out there is a fairly easy way to do this. It involves creating a bookmark in your web browser that is written in Javascript. It calls a FileMaker script using the URL scheme ‘FMP’ and sends the web page title, and the page’s URL to FileMaker. Once you have this in FileMaker, you can use a callback script to get more information from the web page using standard screen scraping techniques to parse out things you are looking for.

This little bookmark makes it easy to grab and save data from the web into your FileMaker solution.

Source: Ever wish there was a way to ‘Send to FileMaker’ from your Web Browser? | HomeBase Software

---

Daniel Wood of Digital Fusion: Easily make beautiful Hamburger sliding menus in FileMaker Client and FileMaker Go

Sliding Drawer Menus

We have covered these types of menus in the past. A couple of years ago I wrote an article about how they can be built using sliding panels. That article went a little over the top by having the menu open/close simply on a mouse-over action through the use of a plugin and tooltips. The technique while workable had some limitations - the plugin on FileMaker Go and WebDirect being one of them.

Recently I began development on a large client solution and decided to overhaul this technique and make it both easier to implement, and more usable and reliable.  The menu was to work on both FileMaker Pro and in FileMaker Go.

I wanted the drawer to look and feel as native as possible, and leverage all the tools that FileMaker provides to give the user the most native experience.

It really is nice to emulate a Web Browser hamburger menu, thus saving valuable screen real estate (especially on iOS devices) and providing a clean interface.  And, of course, there is a Free FileMaker Example File at the link.

Source: Beautiful and Easy Drawer Menus for Desktop and Go

---

Nicholas Orr:  Synch is not a Product

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85yaMidNTFs[/embed]

Nicholas's point is that a true synch is never really possible. Calling it synch sets up the expectation that complete synched version exists at all times.  With that said, Nic spends a bit of time explaining how to synch systems as best you can...just don't call it a sync.

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I made decisions that I regret, and I took them as learning experiences... I'm human, not perfect, like anybody else.

Queen Latifah

FileMaker DevCon 2017 - Geist Interactive Interview

FileMaker DevCon 2017 - Geist Interactive Interview

Join me with Dave Ramsey and Hailey Kurfess at the Geist Interactive booth at DevCon.  Topics include a new Carbon application, basically a free business starting point for larger database systems (I could not find this on the website, so no link), Generator, a free program that make connecting to an API from FileMaker much easier, FM Perception, FM QBO, GoSign, GoZync, GoDraw, and more.

Dave talks about his baby, FM Perception, which is the newest FileMaker database analysis tool (and it is very impressive).

https://youtu.be/AYZjfeIzLaw

Hailey is the Operations Manager and does the critical work in keeping the wheels on bus for Geist Interactive.

JSON, cURL, the FM Data API and JavaScript Training - FREE

Geist Interactive also announced a free training series:

At last months FileMaker DevCon, I had the honor of presenting 8 hours of training for the Innovation Track. The material covered JSON, cURL, the FM Data API and JavaScript.  It was great fun. But it was a lot of material, and we didn’t get all the way through. In order to make sure that everyone has access to this very important material, I am going to be releasing a very long series of videos, blogs, tutorials, and webinars covering all of the material, starting in the first week of September 2017.  Here is how we are planning to pull it off.

Format

I’ll be releasing a video, tutorial and sample files at regular intervals, hopefully, every week. There will be a slack channel for people to ask questions. And we’ll have occasional Webinars for advanced topics and tutorials. We plan to do this for as long as we have topics.  See Below for the Topics we’ll be covering.

I signed up, and I recommend you do the same.

---

Form follows function.

Louis Sullivan

FileMaker DevCon 2017 - Cross IT Interview

Cross IT Interview at FileMaker DevCon 2017

Bob and Laura of Cross IT were kind enough to let me interview them at FileMaker DevCon 2017:

https://youtu.be/4hnXq4YWYoo

Custom FileMaker Development and Off the Shelf Solutions

Cross IT develops custom FileMaker solutions for their clients and has three off the shelf solutions. Featured at the show was a Help Desk solution with a side of Project Management.  The other two are a forms solutions (think Survey Monkey) and a site management solution (think managing the exhibit hall we were in).

And they were giving away splat balls (you gotta see it to believe it - it's on the video).  My three young granddaughters each got one when I made it home and spent the rest of the day throwing their ball at every flat surface they could find.  Wonderful fun.

Thanks Bob...Thanks Laura!

 

Demystifying SSL and FileMaker - Mislav Kos

Demystifying SSL and FileMaker

SSL and encryption are confusing subjects that make even very smart people want to run the other way.  This is especially so when dealing with SSL and FileMaker, it seems. And that, as with any other confusing subject area, makes it a profitable subject for those willing to master it.  But where do you start?   There are figuratively reams of data out there with sometimes conflicting information.  And since every system is different, and every implementation seems to be difficult.

Don't Despair

You need clarity.  And Mislav Kos provides that clarity in his presentation, DV006 - Demystifying SSL - Mislav Kos |FileMaker Community, delivered at FileMaker DevCon 2017.  If you need to understand what SSL and security, set aside an hour to watch this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ig_UTnYcBTo&feature=youtu.be

 

This video will provide you with answers:

SSL is a critical part of security, but its mechanics are not well understood. We all use SSL on a daily basis as web users, but many of us couldn’t say what is in an SSL certificate, what role certificate authorities play, or why it’s important to use a custom certificate with FileMaker Server.

This session will demystify SSL, explain its constituent parts and the steps in the process, and walk through the steps of getting and installing a custom certificate.

What You Will Learn

• The mechanics of SSL, the role of certificate authorities, and the details of how digital signatures work


• Why you should never use the FileMaker Server standard certification in production (this will scare you if you haven't installed SSL)


• How to get and install a custom SSL certificate


• Learn about some of the 'gotchas' you may encounter when setting up and using SSL with FileMaker

Here are a few more nuggets of info from the video you might find useful:

• Cheaper pricing


• List of tested certificates (and FileMaker Server 15+ help)


• FileMaker Server 14 help


• FileMaker Cloud help


• If you use GoDaddy, be sure to choose the Other option when downloading the certificates, otherwise the intermediate cert won't work with FileMaker (this is my tip, btw)

If you are a developer and want to leverage your skills, study this video and practice what's inside.

If you just want to know more about SSL and FileMaker, just watch it.  You won't regret it.

---

Good advice for FileMaker Developers (for you and your clients):  Pick One Thing Today to Automate

Triple 8 Network - FileMaker Hosting, IT Services, and more.

FileMaker Hosting, IT Services, and more at Triple 8 Network

Mark Brown is the man to talk to at Triple 8 Network, a long time provider of FileMaker hosting services.  And in today's world of Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Azure, I asked Mark why people should use Triple 8 for their hosting needs:

There you have it:

• Free tech support


• Better service


• Enterprise Class SSD drives


• Free Backups


• Free Archives


• An image backup of your server every night


• Better hardware


• Services offered in the following countries
  
  • US
  
  
  • Sweden
  
  
  • England
  
  
  • Singapore
  
  
  • Japan
  
  
  • Australia
  
  


• He owns all the servers and rents space


• 10GB connections at the backbone


• 100 day free trial - never expires


• Hosts FileMaker 7 to 16


• They'll convert your FM 7 files to fmp12 for you if you upgrade


• Virtual Servers


• Dedicated Servers


• Managed Servers

And more.

So look at your needs closely before choosing one of the big players in this arena.  Remember the learning curve for AWS and Azure is a bit steep for the average user.

Triple 8 might just be the best FileMaker hosting solution for you and your client.

---

Did you know there are a number of magical 3 little word phrases which, if used more often, could transform you, your team and your business? 

Lesterius (MyFMButler) at DevCon 2017 - Mobile App Builder

What's New From Lesterius (AKA MyFMButler)

Lesterius is one of the largest European FileMaker developer companies, and also sells great FileMaker related products.  I had the opportunity to stop by their booth at DevCon 2017 and learn what they've been up to in just two minutes:



Along with updates to several of their existing products like FM Calendar, Lesterius just released a new product that many FileMaker Developers might just want to check out:  Mobile App Builder.

No Need for xCode

If you want to build a FileMaker based iOS app, you can do it.  You just need to learn how to use Apple's xCode and the FileMaker SDK.  Which is a large barrier for many developers, especially if you don't have the time necessary to learn it properly.  Mobile App Builder will help - it allows you to build a custom iOS FileMaker App without learning xCode:

Mobile App Builder allows you to create and manage FileMaker mobile custom apps with the iOS App SDK without knowledge of Xcode in an easy-to-use interface.

The required knowledge of command line instructions and xcode can be a threshold to use the FileMaker iOS App SDK. With the myFMbutler Mobile App Builder we simplified the whole build process and you can now build apps without even opening Xcode.

It's due to be released this month but isn't shipping as of today.

---

The market for used eclipse sunglasses

It doesn't matter how long the line was yesterday...The market is gone.

Seth Godin

 

 

FileMaker JSON Functions

Using FileMaker JSON Functions

Have you tried the new FileMaker 16 JSON functions?  If not, you are in for a treat.  I hadn't taken the time to explore them depth, mainly because I did not have a client needing the work who had FileMaker 16.  That changed, so I started doing research, and found a wealth of information.

JSON basic usage includes the following:

• Creating JSON files - we're interest in doing so from FileMaker data


• Parsing JSON files - getting what we want from a JSON document


• Modifying JSON data in files - adding and deleting information


• Formatting JSON documents in order to improve readability


• Listing values from a JSON document using a path, key or index


• Listing the keys from a path, key or index

On top of that, I found ways to use the new JSON functions to do old things in new ways, and to do them easier.

The Basics

The most useful video and post I found for dealing with JSON basics is from Jeremiah Hammond at DB Services:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ky2mo4rIUE

The accompanying post is well written and there is free download FileMaker file with the JSON examples available, too – DB Services free FM QuickStart solution.

FileMaker's JSON tools are powerful and easy to use once you get the hang of it.  And there are innovative ways to use JSON, too.

Using JSON in Innovative Ways

• JSON Transactional Edits in FileMaker 16 - Using JSON to more easily allow a Browse and an Edit mode in FileMaker (free download available)


• Overview: better script parameters - Using JSON to send multiple script parameters


• FileMaker 16: Passing Multiple Parameters Natively Using JSON - Another look at passing multiple script parameters


• Google – Auto Complete using JSON in FIleMaker 16 - Look up contact from Google's Auto Complete


• JSON + Virtual List - Using JSON to populate virtual lists (see part two, also, and download the free files at each link)

I'm thinking we've just scratched the surface in this area.  Keep on the lookout for new ways to use JSON in FileMaker.

---

You are always a student, never a master. You have to keep moving forward.

Conrad Hall

LiveCode for FM

LiveCode for FM

How many of you remember HyperCard, a development system for Apple from the days before the world wide web (yes, there was a time when the web did not exist)?  Here's a bit of history:

HyperCard is application software and a programming tool for Apple Macintosh and Apple IIGS computers. It is among the first successful hypermedia systems before the World Wide Web.

It combines database abilities with a graphical, flexible, user-modifiable interface.^[2] HyperCard also features HyperTalk, a programming language for manipulating data and the user interface.

This combination of features – simple form layout, database abilities, and ease of programming – led to widespread use in many different roles. Some HyperCard users employed it as a programming system for rapid application development of applications and databases, others for building interactive applications with no database requirements, command and control systems, and many examples in the demoscene.

HyperCard was originally released in 1987 for $49.95 and was included for free with all new Macs sold then.^[1] It was withdrawn from sale in March 2004 after its final update in 1998. HyperCard ran in the Classic Environment, but was not ported to Mac OS X.

At the risk of dating myself, I developed several solutions for my business back then (a resort in New Mexico called the Damsite Recreation Area) using HyperCard. My wife, Dotty, developed a couple of games for her DECA students using HyperCard.  It was very powerful for it's time, but limited in what it could do. And it only ran on a Mac.  But we had fun with it? Then I discovered FileMaker, and that was the end of HyperCard.

How many of you have heard of LiveCode?

Here's what Wikipedia has to say:  

LiveCode (formerly Revolution and MetaCard^[1]) cross-platform^[2]rapid application development runtime environment inspired by HyperCard. It features the Transcript (formerly MetaTalk) programming language which belongs to the family of xTalk scripting languages like HyperCard's HyperTalk.

LiveCode runs on iOS, Android, OS X, Windows 95 through Windows 10, Raspberry Pi and several variations of Unix, including Linux, Solaris, and BSD. It can be used for mobile, desktop and server/CGI applications. The iOS (iPhone and iPad) version was released in December 2010.^[10][11] The first version to deploy to the Web was released in 2009.^[12] It is the most widely used HyperCard/HyperTalk clone,^{[citation needed]} and the only one that runs on all major operating systems.

LiveCode is HyperCard on massive amounts of steroids.  And it works on all major operating systems.

So what does LiveCode have to do with FileMaker?

LiveCode developed a plugin for FileMaker, a plugin that extends FileMaker's capabilities in almost unlimited ways.  Check out Kevin Miller, CEO and founder of LiveCode, at DevCon 2017:

LiveCode shipped it's first live version at DevCon!

Here are just some of the features:

• Drag-drop to create a full user interface experience, include rich graphics and multimedia


• Write code in English to crunch data from any source


• Integrate your FileMaker app with the operating system or web APIs


• Write Custom Functions using their interactive window


• Build custom components


• Custom Form builder


• Upload files to Dropbox - a forever free feature that comes with the free trial.

Here's what Richard Carlton has to say about LiveCode:

https://youtu.be/uidGsnQUKzg

More Info

By the way, there is a developer version of LiveCode for FM, and it's only $50 per year.  It's limited to FileMaker consultants actively developing solutions for other companies.

The bottom line:  LiveCode adds some great features to FileMaker, and it very competitively priced.  Check it out and see if it helps your clients.

And finally, Kevin Miller knows how to draw attention:  At the reception on opening night at DevCon, a Scottish bag pipe player in full regalia marched through the crowd to the LiveCode booth.  That turned some heads...

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Change your thoughts and you change your world.

Norman Vincent Peale

BrilliantSync and LuminFire

Synch FileMaker to almost anything. Easily.

Tim Cimbura has rebranded:  Cimbura.com is now Luminfire.  Tim's company offers a variety of products and services, one of which is a brand new service called BrilliantSync:

ODBC and ESS

BrilliantSync uses ODBC (Open Database Connectivity) And ESS (External SQL Sources) to connect FileMaker automatically to a variety of services such as Gravity Forms, MailChimp, Woo Commerce, and WordPress.

This is good news for those FileMaker developers who need to provide this connectivity but don't want to learn the API or methodology for each service.  And sometimes, providing a one off like this for a client is the best solution.

BrilliantSync does all the work behind the scenes and stores the data on their server, then makes it available to you via ODBC and ESS (at least, that is how it appears to work to me).  Simply put, it means you can add tables from their server to your solution and collect the data from there using standard FileMaker programming techniques.

Smart.  It already works with a list of common services, and you can request a connection to your favorite service if it does not already exist.

Check out this video for an example of this at work.

Note:  BrilliantSync ships in September.

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Knowledge is of no value unless you put it into practice.

Anton Chekhov

Nic Orr and Salvatore Colangelo at FileMaker DevCon 2017

Nic Orr and Salvatore Colangelo at FileMaker DevCon 2017.

I interviewed Nic Orr and Salvatore Colangelo on the exhibition floor at DevCon 2017.  I had never met either before, and enjoyed our meeting.  And, as usual, I learned a lot.

Nic is the developer Goya's BaseElements, RefreshFM, RESTfm, and the BaseElements plugin, a plugin used by a large and growing number of FileMaker developers.  I use it in almost every solution, and am a subscriber of the $199 per year support fee. That fee helps support further development and, more importantly, provides email support from Nic. Very much worth it.

In this interview, you'll learn about Nic's vendor presentation on the differences between the new FileMaker Pro Data API, which is REST based, and RESTfm, a free solution from GOYA.  Download Nic's presentation here. A video from Nic is coming soon, but take the time watch this presentation if you want to know more about REST.

Salvatore talks about his presentation (which you will definitely want to see when it is released by FileMaker) on how to get a start on integrating an API with FileMaker. As most of you know, I feel FileMaker developer will need to know how to integrate web services with FileMaker in order to succeed in the future. Salvatore's presentation makes that easier to do.

https://youtu.be/gTCRFSA0uM0

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Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.

Arthur C. Clarke

Mike Beargie Interview at FileMaker DevCon

Mike Beargie of Mainspring

Mike starts off with two key changes at Mainspring over the past year that resulted in 90% plus utilization for their developers...think about that number.  By streamlining their project management and sales processes, they have increased sales, efficiency and have work lined up and assigned to the right people:

Mike's interview covers a wealth of topics:

• Business process improvements


• Stress Reduction for FileMaker Developers


• Mike's presentation in the Advanced track: ADV005 - Augmenting the iOS App SDK - Mike Beargie
  
  • FileMaker iOS SDK
  
  
  • FM added Plugins capability to the iOS SKD and to FileMaker Cloud
  
  
  • TrackFM, which tracks GPS information over time
  
  
  • MonkeyBread Software's iOS plugin
  
  
  • Showed how to unzip a zip file already in a container field, modify the pics, and then attach the pics to individual records via container fields
  
  
  • Showed how to create merge documents on the fly in FM Go
  
  
  • Demonstrated the BaseElements iOS plugin by processing javascript text to use regular expressions to extract email addresses
    
    • Flattened several arrays into one array
    
    
    • Showed that a loop function will work
    
    
  
  
  • And all of the above works offline - no internet connection, no need to send work to a server
  
  


• Keeping up with FileMaker by listening to and watching all of the sessions after FileMaker posts video sessions


• The increase in the level of activity of the FileMaker Community over the past three years


• Integrating other technologies into FileMaker and the challenges existing FileMaker only developers


• The REST API and how it will change how we develop


• NodeJS and other courses available on Linda.com


• The value of learning the language of other developing technologies


• Mike's upcoming presentation at DevCon Japan in October on developing a multilingual FileMaker interface

There's more - the above list is just the highlights.  Watch the whole interview to learn more.

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FileMaker Go, iBeacons, GeoFencing, and TimeCards

FileMaker Go, iBeacons, GeoFencing, and TimeCards

Gerard Beutler's idea to use iBeacons is simple and obvious, just like most AHA! moments. Meaning it's only simple and obvious after that moment.  iBeacons are generally attached to fixed locations and wait for someone to walk by so they can be notified that something of interest is there. In this case, the iBeacon is used to track the location of onsite employees:  when they are in range (geofencing) of their destination, and what time they are there.

Learn more about his custom FileMaker solution in this Facebook Live video from FileMakerDevcon2017:



This concept broadens the uses for iBeacons and for FileMaker, so a win win for both.

To get started on iBeacons and Apple, try this pdf from Apple.

To get started with FileMaker and iBeacons, check this out.

Bonus: To use FileMaker 16 with iBeacons in a more traditional way, check out this video from Cirrus Logic Software:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZ6IUeCInxw

One item of note from the above video:  you can turn your iPhone into an iBeacon for testing purposes.

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The best way to cheer yourself up is to try to cheer somebody else up.

Mark Twain

FileMaker in the Fresno Superintendent of Schools Office

FileMaker in the Fresno Superintendent of Schools

FileMaker DevCon 2017 live FaceBook Interview

David Tsviriko, a Systems Analyst in Human Resources and a FileMaker developer for the Fresno Superintendent of Schools, shares some of his success stories using FileMaker to tame the Binder and Excel beasts so prevalent prior to FileMaker:

David's Solutions

His solutions include updating and streamlining the visitor processing, leading to better accountability and security, along with better information of who visits and when.

David prints a detailed name tag that includes a barcode that is used when the visitor leaves.

He also built several systems to track sick days (and sick day overages), produce lots of forms for printing, track payments, and just improve processes while eliminating paperwork in the Human Resources department.

Ho-hum, just your typical success story by a FileMaker Developer.

Well done, David!

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Just because something has always been done in a certain way is never a sufficient reason for continuing to do it that way.
- Clarence Birdseye (and every FileMaker developer worth his salt)

 

Live from FileMaker DevCon 2017

Check out the view from our Executive Suite where we are doing FaceBook Live interviews from FileMaker DevCon 2017:


We are doing interviews today and tomorrow (July 25th and 26th).  Share your knowledge and expertise and get linked on FileMaker Pro Gurus.

Download an Interview Guide in the header of the website above and text 505-918-1215 to arrange a time.

 

 

 

Gerard Beutler - iBeacon TimeCards at DevCon

Here's Gerard's very unique solution using iBeacons and FileMaker Go to track onsite employees.

We're in Room 4122 in Wing 2

Free FaceBook Live Interview

Come by and film your 5 minute Facebook Live promotional video Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 to 5.  We'll post it on FileMakerProGurus.com after the conference and you can send that to clients, friends, and family.

Don't know what to say?  Download our interview guide for some help.  And we'll help you when you get here.

Show off your knowledge and expertise.  Promote your business, yourself, or your boss's business.

Text 505-918-1215 or 505-908-7971 to schedule a time.

5 Days till FileMaker DevCon 2017

https://youtu.be/y3m2Z460HMU

FaceBook Live Interviews at DevCon 2017 on FileMaker Pro Gurus

FaceBook Live Interviews at DevCon 2017 - and this could you!

Make plans now to do a FaceBook Live interview at my hospitality suite next week at DevCon 2017.

Brag on FileMaker Pro 16, your business, where you work...and share it with your clients. And get more referrals and business.

Get ready by downloading the Interview Guide and filling it out.  Bring that with you when you stop by.

I'll announce the room number and more details next Monday the 24th here and on twitter.

Watch my FaceBook live video from this morning to learn more:

https://youtu.be/2XdYnnbIV0Q

See you there!

FileMaker Card Windows

FileMaker Card Windows

FileMaker Card Windows, a new feature is FileMaker 16, are basically revolutionizing User Interface (UI) design in FileMaker.  The changes are limited only by your imagination, as you will see in videos below.

Simply put, Card windows allow the developer to show any layout independent of context without closing or changing the starting layout.  The starting layout is called the Parent, and it 'owns'' the Card window – the card window stays on top of the originating layout until it is closed.

So, what does that mean, exactly?  Watch these video to get an idea of the power of FileMaker Card Windows:

Martha Zink

Zink gets us started with a basic introduction:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uwHFhbmJBPI

Using a FileMaker Card Window as a Picker for Mouse Users and Keyboard Users

John Mark Osborne shows how to use a FileMaker Card Window as a Picker for populating the right contact into your forms:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZt2Tu_0Apk

To Do List from Anywhere

Martha Zink again on how to make a context independent To Do Card accessible from anywhere in your solution:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPNTW0PVZjw

Floating Card Windows

Matt Petrowsky digs into what's happening behind the scenes with Card Windows and shows some tricks that will come in handy:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ADGFLLZHfhc

That's it for now...but keep an eye out for more articles and videos on Card Windows as developers start flexing their development muscles and showing new ways to build a better interface.

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You can't build a reputation on what you are going to do.

Henry Ford (1863 - 1947)