Author: John Mathewson

FileMaker is an incredibly powerful tool for managing relational databases. Of course, the nature of this platform means a variety of sensitive material may be stored on these databases. From employee social security numbers to client’s banking info to company finances, it’s crucial to ensure this data is safe and secure.

Below are some easy-to-implement but powerful best-practices every company using FileMaker should utilize.

1. Implement User Authentication and Access Controls

One of the fundamental principles of database security– and digital security in general– is controlling who has access to your data. FileMaker provides robust user authentication features that allow you to control access at multiple levels. Utilize privilege sets to define different levels of access for various user roles within your organization. Implement strong password policies (including requirements for complexity and regular password changes) to enhance security.

2. Use Two Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two Factor Authentication (2FA) is the wave of the future and now is the time to embrace it. 2FA is the practice of requiring two forms of identification to log in. Typically, this is a standard password plus either an email with a unique code or an authenticator application that generates a one time password (OTP). Google, Azure, Apple ID, and AWS all offer 2FA systems; some businesses choose to utilize a custom authority setup.

3. Encrypt Data at Rest and in Transit

Encryption is essential for protecting your data from unauthorized access, both at rest and in transit. FileMaker supports encryption of data at rest using industry-standard encryption algorithms. Ensure that encryption is enabled for your databases to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information. Additionally, use SSL/TLS encryption to secure data transmission between FileMaker clients and servers, especially when accessing databases over the internet.

4. Regularly Update FileMaker Software

Keeping your FileMaker software up to date is crucial for staying protected against security vulnerabilities and exploits. FileMaker regularly releases updates and patches to address security issues and improve overall system stability. Make it a priority to install these updates promptly to ensure that your databases are protected against known security threats.

5. Utilize FileMaker Server for Centralized Management and Security

FileMaker Server offers centralized management capabilities that streamline database administration and enhance security. By hosting your databases on FileMaker Server, you can take advantage of features like scheduled backups, automated updates, and enhanced user authentication options. FileMaker Server also provides additional layers of security, such as SSL encryption and external authentication options, to further protect your data.

6. Audit Trail and Logging

Maintaining an audit trail of database activities and logging access attempts is essential for detecting and investigating security incidents. FileMaker allows you to enable logging options to track changes to your databases, including modifications to records and access attempts by users. Regularly review audit logs to identify any suspicious activity and take appropriate action to mitigate potential security risks.

7. Secure FileMaker WebDirect Deployments

If you’re using FileMaker WebDirect to provide web access to your databases, it’s essential to ensure that your deployments are secure. Follow best practices for web server security, such as configuring firewalls, implementing SSL encryption, and regularly updating server software. Limit access to sensitive databases by implementing authentication mechanisms and access controls to prevent unauthorized access.

8. Educate Users on Security Best Practices

Finally, educating users on security best practices is critical for maintaining a secure FileMaker environment. The best security features can be rendered useless by a user carelessly sharing passwords, not following best practices, or even sharing confidential information in a phishing attempt.

Train your users to create strong passwords, recognize phishing attempts, and follow proper data handling procedures. Encourage users to report any suspicious activity or security incidents promptly.

Securing your FileMaker databases requires a combination of robust security features, regular maintenance, and user education. By implementing these best practices and staying informed about the latest security features, you can effectively protect your data from cyber threats and ensure the integrity and confidentiality of your FileMaker databases.

Of course, you can always reach out to Kyo Logic here with questions on security and how to improve. We’d be happy to help you evaluate current systems, identify opportunities, and provide you with the next steps to ensure security and compliance. We can even get a suitable training platform in place for your employees.

Claris has just released their latest version of FileMaker, aptly dubbed “FileMaker 2024.” While it boasts a host of updates and fixes (including an enhanced developers toolkit), the major draw with this update is the integration of Artificial Intelligence.

These AI capabilities make it much easier to navigate and search databases. Users can ask questions and use semantic searches that previously wouldn’t have been possible. Traditional database queries look for specific keywords. For example, if a user were to search “financial report December 2024,” a traditional search would look for each of those numbers and phrases. If they don’t appear in a piece of data—even if that data is relevant—they wouldn’t appear. 

Conversely, semantic queries understand intent. A user could search “numbers for Q4” and the relevant financial report could be found even if it doesn’t contain the words used in the search. It understands the types of information the user needs and tailors its search based on those requirements.

Additionally, and arguably most importantly, FileMaker’s support of AI allows for integration into workflows without risking apps and data. Running invoices through a third-party AI puts that data at risk. Claris’s AI integration allows users to perform those same tasks while keeping their data (and client data) safe and secure.

While AI is certainly exciting, plenty of other great features are being added. Development and deployment are now even faster. One of FileMaker’s greatest strengths has always been its ability to modulate and update itself based on evolving needs. Mobile apps are easier to integrate, widgets can link to favorite apps, and FileMaker Go can even launch apps as soon as it starts up. 

There are also great under-the-hood features for programmers and administrators that will make their lives easier and the work they do even better. If you’re interested in learning more about FileMaker and its shiny new AI integration, you can reach out to us here.

In an information age of cloud storage and remote collaboration, we tend to take our access to date for granted. Unfortunately, that level of accessibility is exactly what leaves businesses prone to issues– system failures, phishing and malware, and physical damage can cause sudden and catastrophic problems for companies that do any degree of business online.

Data backed up in the cloud isn’t necessarily safe, and some backup methods are more secure than others. It’s important to understand what constitutes a “good” backup system, how to proactively protect your data, and what to do if your backups fall short.

Let’s start with a sobering reality: having backups stored haphazardly or accessible to malicious actors is akin to locking your front door but leaving the windows wide open. While it may give you a false sense of security, it’s not enough to thwart determined threats. Whether it’s multiple backups stored in one physical location or backups susceptible to phishing attacks and malware infiltration, the risks are manifold.

What Threatens Backed Up Data?

Bad agents–that is, anyone looking to steal or corrupt your data– have a variety of tactics to get into your system. “Phishing” is the act of attempting to get sensitive data simply by asking for it. Hackers will often impersonate other employees or vendor representatives and request login or payment info. With the right login info, these hackers can easily access your data– no brute forcing or technical expertise necessary to even gain entry. Of course, this puts your data at risk of deletion, theft, and corruption.

“Malware” meanwhile, is software used to manipulate or damage computer systems. It could be a program that simply renders a computer useless. It could also damage entire networks of computers. Businesses backing their data up across a series of virtual machines could see malware corrupt all that valuable data nearly instantaneously.

Of course, employees wouldn’t purposefully choose to download or run malware. That’s why malware is often used in tandem with phishing– seemingly innocuous emails are sent with the intention of getting employees to click on links or run this software.

While we often think of the digital threats, there are also much simpler issues that could render your data useless. Flooding, fires, and storm damage could completely destroy physical servers. While it’s impossible to predict or fully protect against natural disasters, backing your data up across physical (and digital) locations will ensure these problems don’t wipe out everything.

What is a GOOD Backup Strategy?

So, what constitutes a “good” backup strategy? First and foremost, redundancy is key. Backups should be stored in multiple locations – both onsite and offsite – to mitigate the risk of a single point of failure. Cloud-based backups offer an extra layer of security, ensuring your data remains accessible even if your physical systems are compromised. Regular testing of backups is also essential to identify and address any vulnerabilities before disaster strikes.

Despite your best efforts, there may come a time when your backups are rendered useless. Perhaps they’ve fallen victim to a sophisticated cyberattack or succumbed to the forces of nature. In such scenarios, having a contingency plan is paramount. Whether it’s leveraging data recovery services or rebuilding your systems from scratch, swift and decisive action can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a full-blown catastrophe.

Having backups is non-negotiable in today’s digital landscape. However, simply having backups is not enough – they must be robust, redundant, and resilient to withstand the myriad threats lurking in the shadows. By following best practices, staying vigilant against emerging threats, and having a solid contingency plan in place, you can ensure that your backups are more than just a safety net – they’re a lifeline in times of crisis.

In today’s construction industry, digital tools have become indispensable for managing projects, ensuring safety, and maintaining communication. However, field workers on construction sites often face significant challenges when it comes to uploading and accessing crucial data. Oftentimes, it’s an issue of simply being in an area with no or limited signal. However, specialized construction companies (like those that build power plants) can be working in extenuating circumstances– the construction itself may interfere with wireless signals.

The Challenges Faced by Construction Field Workers

Limited Connectivity

Remote construction sites frequently suffer from poor or intermittent internet connections. This lack of reliable connectivity hinders the ability of field workers to upload real-time data, share updates with the main office, and access critical information on demand. Delays in communication and data transfer can lead to costly errors and project delays.

Large File Sizes

Construction projects generate substantial amounts of data, including blueprints, high-resolution images, and videos documenting site conditions. Uploading these large files over slow or unstable internet connections can be a daunting task. The prolonged upload times and potential for failed uploads create significant inefficiencies and frustrations for field workers.

Data Synchronization Issues

Keeping data consistent and up-to-date across multiple devices and team members is another major hurdle. Without reliable synchronization, discrepancies can arise, leading to confusion and errors. The risk of data loss or outdated information being used in decision-making processes poses a serious threat to project integrity.

Harsh Working Conditions

The physical environment of construction sites can be harsh, with dust, extreme weather, and rugged terrain impacting both equipment and data handling processes. Ensuring that devices remain functional and that data entry and storage processes are reliable under these conditions adds another layer of complexity.

Fortunately, there’s a solution. Kyo Logic’s Kyo Sync II offers a reliable data syncing solution, even for users not currently connected to the internet.

Offline Data Syncing

Kyo Sync II offers robust offline syncing capabilities, allowing field workers to continue collecting and managing data even when internet connectivity is unavailable. Once a stable connection is reestablished, the data is automatically uploaded and synchronized, ensuring that no information is lost and that work can proceed uninterrupted. This feature is particularly valuable in remote areas where connectivity can be sporadic.

Efficient File Handling

Kyo Sync II is designed to handle large files efficiently. The software optimizes the upload process by compressing files and ensuring that data transfers are completed quickly, even over limited bandwidth. This means that high-resolution images, detailed blueprints, and other large files can be uploaded without causing significant delays or interruptions to the workflow.

Real-time Collaboration and Synchronization

With Kyo Sync II, real-time data synchronization across multiple devices and users becomes seamless. The software automatically updates and resolves any conflicts, ensuring that all team members have access to the most current information. This real-time collaboration capability minimizes errors and enhances coordination, leading to smoother project execution.

Robustness and Reliability

Kyo Sync II is built to withstand the demanding conditions of construction sites. Its durability ensures that data integrity is maintained even in harsh environments. Features such as robust encryption, secure data storage, and reliable offline capabilities make Kyo Sync II a dependable choice for field workers who need to manage data in challenging conditions.

Construction field workers in remote areas face numerous challenges in uploading and managing data, from limited connectivity to large file sizes and harsh working conditions. Kyo Sync II addresses these issues with its offline data syncing, efficient file handling, real-time synchronization, and robust reliability. By adopting Kyo Sync II, construction companies can ensure smoother project execution, reduce errors, and enhance overall efficiency.

To learn more about how Kyo Sync II can transform your construction projects, contact Kyo Logic today. Request a demo or consultation to see firsthand how this powerful tool can meet your needs.

In today’s interconnected professional world, companies and employees have a variety of tools at their disposal to work from virtually anywhere. Companies can decentralize without seeing a loss in collaboration or productivity. However, that “virtually anywhere” comes with a caveat. There are industries that still struggle, particularly with field workers that spend time in report areas, or working in conditions that can make consistent, reliable connections difficult. 

Oil and Gas, Commercial HVAC, Healthcare,  Construction, and Manufacturing  are just some of the industries that depend on a workforce that can spend a significant time doing field work. Understanding how to best equip these employees with the tools the need to limit downtime and ensure consistency is critical.

The Difficulties of Fieldwork

In these industries, field workers are deployed to collect a variety of data– data that needs to be synthesized and uploaded in a timely fashion. Other employees, or even entire teams, are entirely dependent on this data.

Unfortunately, field work can produce issues with connectivity and data syncing. Most simply, workers may find themselves in an area that simply doesn’t have a cell phone tower nearby. Without proper cell coverage, many modern platforms simply don’t work. Intermittent coverage may result in uploads failing to complete and critical data being lost.

Other times, the nature of the work may simply make it difficult to connect to a shared database. For example, companies that work in the construction of nuclear powerplants can often experience machine interference just because of the equipment involved and the nature of the industry. In fact, the equipment utilized may be so sensitive that other electronic devices with WiFi capabilities may not even be allowed on premises.

This can make it difficult to accurately track and report the necessary data. At best, it requires these field workers to essentially enter this information twice– once in the field, and then again when they can reliably connect to their network.

The Importance of Effective Collaboration Tools

Effective collaboration tools are indispensable for remote teams to overcome these challenges. Seamless access to real-time data and communication channels is paramount to enhancing productivity and streamlining workflows. By leveraging the right tools, teams can mitigate the barriers imposed by geographical distances and operate cohesively regardless of location.

Introducing Kyo Sync II

Enter Kyo Sync II – a cutting-edge solution designed to address the unique needs of remote teams. Unlike traditional database synchronization methods, Kyo Sync II offers a revolutionary approach that enables seamless data synchronization even in environments with limited or no internet connectivity. By creating a network community rather than a network, Kyo Sync II empowers users to sync disparate databases independently, ensuring that each device serves as a “source of truth” until connectivity is restored.

Key Features and Benefits of Kyo Sync II

Kyo Sync II boasts a myriad of features tailored to enhance collaboration in remote teams:

• Offline Functionality: Users can make changes locally without requiring an internet connection, enabling uninterrupted workflow in remote or low-connectivity environments.
• Real-time Synchronization: Data is synchronized automatically once an internet connection is established, ensuring that all team members have access to the latest information.
• Simplified Integration: Compatible with Claris and FileMaker-based platforms, Kyo Sync II seamlessly integrates into existing systems without requiring external equipment, reducing development costs and simplifying implementation.
• Enhanced Security: By storing information locally, Kyo Sync II mitigates the risk of data manipulation or unauthorized access, safeguarding sensitive information.

Effective collaboration is essential for the success of remote teams, and Kyo Sync II serves as a game-changer in this regard. By addressing common pain points and offering innovative features, Kyo Sync II empowers teams to streamline workflows, enhance communication, and maintain data integrity regardless of their location. As remote work continues to evolve, embracing tools like Kyo Sync II is paramount for driving productivity and fostering collaboration in the digital age. Consider implementing Kyo Sync II to elevate your remote team’s collaboration efforts and unlock new possibilities for success.

Do you want to learn more about how to leverage Kyo Sync II for your company? Reach out to us here and schedule a free consultation.

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, staying competitive means embracing innovative technologies that streamline processes and boost efficiency. One such synergy gaining significant traction is the convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Low-Code Development platforms. This fusion heralds a new era of automation, enabling businesses to propel themselves forward with unprecedented speed and agility.

Intelligent Process Automation

Intelligent Process Automation (IPA) represents a paradigm shift in how businesses approach automation. By marrying AI with low-code platforms, organizations can automate not just routine tasks, but also complex processes that traditionally required human intervention. For instance, AI algorithms can analyze unstructured data sources such as emails or documents, extract relevant information, and trigger subsequent actions within low-code workflows. This not only accelerates process execution but also ensures accuracy and consistency, reducing the risk of errors inherent in manual operations.

Moreover, AI-driven automation continuously learns and adapts based on historical data and feedback, allowing for continuous optimization and refinement of business processes. This iterative approach to automation enables organizations to stay agile and responsive in the face of evolving market dynamics and customer demands. As a result, businesses can unlock new levels of operational efficiency, cost savings, and scalability, positioning themselves for sustained growth and success in a rapidly changing landscape.

Enhanced Decision-Making

In today’s data-driven world, the ability to derive actionable insights from vast volumes of information is crucial for informed decision-making. AI-powered low-code platforms offer advanced analytics capabilities that go beyond basic reporting and visualization. Through techniques such as machine learning and predictive modeling, these platforms can identify hidden patterns, correlations, and trends within complex datasets, empowering decision-makers to anticipate market shifts, identify emerging opportunities, and mitigate potential risks proactively.

Furthermore, AI-driven insights enable businesses to personalize their offerings and interactions with customers, leading to more meaningful and impactful engagements. For instance, AI algorithms can analyze customer behavior and preferences to deliver targeted marketing campaigns, product recommendations, and support services tailored to individual needs. By leveraging AI-powered analytics within low-code environments, organizations can gain a competitive edge by making data-driven decisions that drive growth, foster innovation, and enhance overall business performance.

Customization and Personalization

In an era where customer expectations are higher than ever, delivering personalized experiences has become a cornerstone of competitive differentiation. AI and low-code integration can empower businesses to create highly customized applications and interfaces that resonate with their target audience on a deeper level. By leveraging AI algorithms for natural language processing, image recognition, and predictive modeling, organizations can develop intelligent applications that adapt and respond to individual user preferences, behaviors, and contexts in real-time.

Moreover, low-code development accelerates the delivery of personalized solutions by simplifying the application development process and reducing time-to-market. With intuitive visual interfaces and pre-built components, developers can quickly prototype, iterate, and deploy custom applications tailored to specific business requirements. This agility not only enhances customer satisfaction but also enables organizations to stay ahead of evolving market trends and customer expectations. By harnessing the combined power of AI and low-code development, businesses can create immersive and engaging experiences that drive customer loyalty, foster brand advocacy, and fuel long-term growth and profitability.

As we venture further into the digital age, the synergy between AI and low-code development is set to redefine the way businesses operate. From streamlining processes and enhancing decision-making to delivering unparalleled customization, the benefits are undeniable. Embracing this convergence isn’t just a competitive advantage; it’s a necessity in today’s dynamic marketplace. By harnessing the synergy of Artificial Intelligence and low-code platforms, businesses can chart a course towards sustained success and innovation.

Start-ups are fast-paced, scrappy, and innovative. As such, they value impactful ways to accelerate growth while minimizing costs. If a platform, program, or process that can scale, provide competitive advantages and doesn’t break the proverbial bank– it’s a must-have for start-ups. It’s exactly why we’re seeing these early-stage companies adopt low-code and no-code platforms. They provide an approach to application development that’s revolutionary within the tech landscape overall, but the benefits are particularly aligned with the needs (and limitations) of startups.

There are three primary reasons startups are embracing low-code platforms on a massive scale:

Accelerated Development

Startups operate in a dynamic and competitive ecosystem where time-to-market can be the difference between success and obscurity. Low-code/no-code platforms emerge as a game-changer in this scenario by significantly reducing the time required to develop and deploy applications. Unlike traditional coding methods, which require meticulous and time-consuming hand-coding, low-code/no-code platforms offer a visual development environment. This enables startups to quickly build, iterate, and adapt applications in response to market feedback or changing needs. By streamlining the development process, these platforms allow startups to maintain agility and stay ahead of the competition.

Cost Efficiency

One of the biggest challenges faced by startups is managing limited resources. Hiring a team of experienced developers and investing in infrastructure can drain a startup’s finances, leaving little room for other critical activities. Here, low-code/no-code platforms offer a compelling solution by reducing the need for extensive coding expertise and infrastructure. Startups can leverage these platforms to create robust applications with minimal investment, thus democratizing access to technology. By lowering the barrier to entry, low-code/no-code platforms enable more startups to bring their innovative ideas to life without the burden of prohibitive development costs.

Flexibility and Scalability

As startups grow, their needs evolve, requiring solutions that are not only flexible but also scalable. Low-code/no-code platforms cater to this requirement by enabling startups to build applications that can easily adapt and scale alongside their business. These platforms provide a range of customization options and integrations, allowing startups to modify their applications as needed without starting from scratch. Additionally, the ability to scale operations efficiently without significant investment in development resources is a critical factor that helps startups sustain growth and respond to increasing demand.

The rise of low-code/no-code platforms is a testament to the evolving needs of the modern business landscape, where agility, cost-efficiency, and scalability are paramount. For startups, these platforms offer a strategic advantage, allowing them to navigate the challenges of early-stage growth while positioning themselves for future success. As the business world continues to embrace digital transformation, it’s clear that low-code/no-code development is not just a passing trend but a fundamental shift in how companies approach technology and innovation.

If you’re part of a startup and want to learn more about how low-code platforms can work for you, you can reach out to Kyo Logic here. We’ll be happy to set you up with a free consultation

The Kyo Logic team is back from Claris Engage, and it was an absolutely incredible year to experience the expo. Claris Engage is an annual conference organized by Claris International, a subsidiary of Apple Inc. It’s a gathering focused on the FileMaker platform, which provides tools for creating custom apps for businesses. At Claris Engage, attendees can participate in workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities to learn about the latest developments in the FileMaker ecosystem, discover new techniques for app development, and connect with fellow developers and industry experts. It’s a valuable event for anyone involved in building custom apps or interested in leveraging the power of the FileMaker platform for their business needs.

There was plenty to learn about the future of Claris and its offerings, the ways in which we’ll be seeing low-code platforms expand and grow, and unsurprisingly… plenty of talk about AI. Here are some of our key takeaways:

• Everyone is investing in Artificial Intelligence. We’re seeing all the usual suspects in tech racing to innovate in the space. Even companies like Bloomberg are spending serious money to develop AI investment tools. This industry is going to grow at a rapid clip, and all this investing benefits everyone. It’s considerably cheaper to buy or rent an existing AI model than it is to train one from scratch. Some of these companies will be offering their models to the public, and that competition in the space can only lead to further innovation.
• What does AI have to do with low-code platforms like Claris/FileMaker? AI is a great compliment to low-code platforms (and vice-versa). They’re similar in that they’re making things faster, more efficient, and more accessible. We anticipate seeing AI-powered low-code solutions in the near future that will help build things like databases, websites, and apps at the press of a button.
• ChatGPT can generate custom code for users, and developers can effectively ingest this code with their own low-code platforms. This can all be done without sending the users data or sharing any confidential or proprietary information.
• ChatGPT can integrate directly with FileMaker– there’s no special tools or updates needed. Use cases include generating custom charts or having AI do a custom find.

Of course, Kyo Logic was there with our own presentation on Kyo Sync II– an innovative way to be able to sync databases even without consistent internet or cloud access. You can read more about Kyo Sync II here.

Claris Engage is always an amazing experience and a great way to learn more about what Claris is doing and how other teams are innovating. We’re excited to see how AI trends continue to develop and what Claris Engage will look like in 2025!