Bringing AI to Your PDFs: Using RAG and GetTextFromPDF in FileMaker

Posted by Kyo Logic on September 4, 2025

FileMaker 2025 takes a big leap forward in document intelligence with the introduction of GetTextFromPDF and support for Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) workflows. Together, these features enable developers to extract content from PDFs, feed it into AI queries, and deliver smarter, context-aware responses—all from within FileMaker.

For organizations managing contracts, manuals, reports, or compliance documents, this unlocks powerful new ways to make data more accessible.

Extracting Text from PDFs with GetTextFromPDF

The new GetTextFromPDF function allows developers to pull plain text directly from PDFs stored in FileMaker container fields. This removes the need for external tools or manual copy-pasting.

Example use cases:

  • Extracting contract terms for automated review

  • Pulling specifications from technical manuals

  • Making historical reports searchable inside FileMaker

With documents converted into structured text, your FileMaker app becomes a repository for smarter queries and workflows.

Adding AI with Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG)

Once text is extracted, FileMaker can apply RAG workflows by sending relevant content to an AI model. Instead of relying on generic knowledge, the AI can answer questions based on your own documents.

Example use cases:

  • Ask “What’s the warranty period in this contract?” and receive an AI-generated response grounded in the extracted text

  • Search policies and instantly surface the relevant compliance rules

  • Build knowledge bases that combine multiple PDFs into a single, AI-driven query system

RAG ensures responses are not only intelligent but also accurate and based on your organization’s actual content.

Smarter Document-Driven Apps

By combining GetTextFromPDF and RAG, developers can build FileMaker apps that:

  • Transform static PDFs into searchable knowledge assets

  • Automate compliance checks and reporting

  • Empower employees to query documents naturally, without needing to dig through lengthy files

This makes FileMaker a powerful platform for industries where document management and accuracy are mission-critical.

FileMaker 2025 turns everyday documents into intelligent, searchable resources. With GetTextFromPDF and RAG capabilities, you can build apps that not only store PDFs but also understand them—delivering real-time insights and smarter workflows.

Interested in exploring how Claris FileMaker can power AI-driven document intelligence? Reach out to Kyo Logic here.