FileMaker Cloud 2025: What This Means for Modern FileMaker Deployments

Claris has announced that FileMaker Cloud 2025 (v2.22) is arriving in November, bringing faster performance, new security updates, and a few critical compatibility changes.

For most developers, this release isn’t about flashy new features, it’s about alignment: keeping your apps compatible, secure, and future-ready as the FileMaker platform continues its cloud-first evolution.

 


Why It Matters

The new FileMaker Cloud version introduces updated security infrastructure, improved monitoring, and performance optimizations built on the same Ubuntu foundation as FileMaker Server 2025.

But the real story is compatibility: older clients won’t connect after the upgrade. That means organizations running legacy versions of FileMaker Pro or Go need to update before November 6 to avoid user lockouts or connection errors.

In other words:

If you’re running FileMaker Pro earlier than 20.3.2 or FileMaker Go before version 21, plan your upgrades now.

 


What’s New

FileMaker Cloud 2025 brings:

  • Enhanced encryption and security certification (SOC 2 Type 2, ISO/IEC)

     

  • Expanded AWS region support for better regional performance and compliance

     

  • Proactive infrastructure management handled entirely by Claris (patching, updates, OS maintenance)

     

  • Improved version-checking tools so admins can automatically prompt users to update

     

Together, these updates continue Claris’s push toward a self-maintaining, secure, and scalable FileMaker environment (especially for organizations ready to offload infrastructure management).

 


How to Prepare

If you’re an administrator:

  1. Audit your connected clients.
    Use the Admin Console’s Access.log or Claris’s sample file to check which FileMaker Pro/Go versions are still in use.

     

  2. Set up an upgrade prompt.
    You can script a simple version check using Get ( ApplicationVersion ) on file open. Claris even provides a template!

     

  3. Review your maintenance schedule.
    Manual upgrades open November 6, and systems with automatic maintenance will update during their next scheduled window.

     

For teams that rely on continuous uptime, this is a good opportunity to test in a staging environment before upgrading production systems.

 


Where It Fits

Claris continues to narrow the gap between on-premise and cloud deployments, with FileMaker Cloud now offering many of the same administrative controls as FileMaker Server (but without the maintenance burden).

For Kyo Logic clients, we see FileMaker Cloud 2025 as a strong fit for:

  • Teams that need enterprise-grade security without managing servers

     

  • Organizations with distributed workforces or multi-region access needs

     

  • Businesses planning to integrate Claris Connect or AI-driven features that depend on modern infrastructure

     

If you’re still hosting your own FileMaker Server but curious about the cloud transition, this release makes the case stronger than ever.

 


Kyo Logic’s Take

Claris isn’t just maintaining the platform, they’re future-proofing it. With FileMaker Cloud 2025, the company is making sure that as FileMaker continues to integrate AI, APIs, and data services, your infrastructure won’t hold you back.

We recommend using this update window to:

  • Confirm client version compliance

     

  • Evaluate whether your hosting environment still fits your operational goals

     

  • Explore modernization opportunities, like hybrid AI or analytics layers built on FileMaker 2025

     

Need help preparing or auditing your deployment?
We’re helping clients plan clean upgrade paths now before the November rollout.

Contact us to make sure your systems are ready.

 
 
 
 

 

Can Your FileMaker Do This? Mini JSON Use Cases

1) A readable audit trail without extra fields

What: Keep a simple change log per record as JSON (who changed what, and when).
Why: Easier reviews and handoffs; no more scattering “_old/_new” fields across the table.
How: On commit, append one JSON entry to an “AuditJSON” field.

// Append one change entry (example for a Status change)

Set Variable [ $entry ;

  JSONSetElement ( “{}” ;

    [ “timestamp” ; Get ( CurrentTimestamp ) ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “user” ; Get ( AccountName ) ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “field” ; “Status” ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “from” ; $$old_Status ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “to” ; Status ; JSONString ]

  )

]

Set Field [ Table::AuditJSON ; List ( Table::AuditJSON ; $entry ) ]  // one JSON per line

 

 


 

2) A safe outbound “API outbox” (with retry)

What: Queue JSON payloads for external systems (ERP/CRM/shipping) with a status flag: Queued, Sent, Failed.
Why: Network hiccups happen; a queue prevents lost or duplicate updates.
How: Write payloads to an Outbox table; a server script (or Claris Connect) posts and updates status.

Set Variable [ $payload ;

  JSONSetElement ( “{}” ;

    [ “orderId” ; Orders::OrderID ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “total” ; Orders::Total ; JSONNumber ] ;

    [ “items” ; Orders::ItemsJSON ; JSONObject ]  // your own items JSON

  )

]

New Record/Request

Set Field [ Outbox::Endpoint ; “https://api.example.com/orders” ]

Set Field [ Outbox::Payload  ; $payload ]

Set Field [ Outbox::Status   ; “Queued” ]

 

 


 

3) Validate incoming JSON before it touches your fields

What: Confirm required keys and data types with JSON functions.
Why: Protects your schema; stops odd values at the door.
How: Use JSONListKeys and JSONGetElementType to check presence and types.

Set Variable [ $body ; $$IncomingJSON ]

If [ PatternCount ( ¶ & JSONListKeys ( $body ; “” ) & ¶ ; ¶ & “email” & ¶ ) = 0

  or JSONGetElementType ( $body ; “email” ) ≠ “string” ]

  Show Custom Dialog [ “Incoming JSON missing a valid email.” ]

  Exit Script

End If

 

 


 

4) Drive picklists and rules from JSON (no schema change)

What: Store business rules (allowed statuses, thresholds) in JSON so small changes don’t require schema edits.
Why: Faster updates; fewer trips through the relationship graph.
How: Keep rules in a Settings table, load to a global on first use.

// Settings::RulesJSON example: { “StatusOptions”: [“New”,”Packed”,”Shipped”] }

Set Variable [ $$rules    ; Settings::RulesJSON ]

Set Variable [ $$statuses ; JSONListValues ( $$rules ; “StatusOptions” ) ]

// Use $$statuses in a value list or custom UI

 

 


 

5) Hand a “view model” to a Web Viewer

What: Build a small JSON view model for a record and let HTML/JS render cards or charts.
Why: Clear separation: FileMaker gathers data; the viewer handles visuals.
How: Assemble JSON and pass it as a parameter or via a global field.

Set Variable [ $$vm ;

  JSONSetElement ( “{}” ;

    [ “customer” ; Customers::Name ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “balance”  ; Customers::AR_Balance ; JSONNumber ] ;

    [ “orders”   ; Customers::RecentOrdersJSON ; JSONObject ]  // prebuilt JSON

  )

]

// Web Viewer page reads $$vm and renders

 

 


 

6) A tidy JSON summary for BI (Power BI/Tableau)

What: Normalize your data once into JSON and expose it via an OData layout for BI tools.
Why: One shaping step in FileMaker keeps dashboards simple downstream.
How: Write a “staging” JSON per row in a BI_Staging table that your OData layout publishes.

Set Variable [ $row ;

  JSONSetElement ( “{}” ;

    [ “OrderID”   ; Orders::OrderID ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “ItemCount” ; ValueCount ( JSONListValues ( Orders::ItemsJSON ; “” ) ) ; JSONNumber ] ;

    [ “OrderDate” ; Orders::OrderDate ; JSONString ]

  )

]

Set Field [ BI_Staging::RowJSON ; $row ]   // include this field on the OData layout

 

 


 

How to try this (quick plan)

  1. Pick one use case above (audit trail or validation is a good start).

  2. Build a small script in a copy of your file; test with a few records.

  3. If it helps, add a Claris Studio form or a Claris Connect step to round out the flow.

  4. Share a short demo with your team and note the time saved or errors avoided.

Note on sample code
The snippets below are examples. You’ll need to adapt names and context to your solution before running them. In particular, update:

  • Layout names (e.g., Orders_list, Customers_edapi)

  • Table occurrences and field names (paths used in JSON and scripts)

  • Portal/table occurrence names for portalData and related writes

  • Privileges and triggers (who can run it, when it should fire)

  • Error handling (Get( LastError ), logging, retries)

  • Publishing context for BI (place fields on your OData layout)

Web Viewer handoff method (global field, script parameter, etc.)

 

 

How Claris Expanded “Execute FileMaker Data API” in 2024–2025

If you have not looked at the Execute FileMaker Data API script step (often shortened to eDAPI) in a while, it’s worth a revisit. Recent versions let you read and write records, including create, update, delete, and duplicate, by sending a small JSON request. You can do this without moving users around layouts and without calling the server’s web Data API. The step runs inside your file (hosted or local) and returns clear JSON that works well with web viewers, JavaScript, and external services. help.claris.com

 


 

What changed

  • Full CRUD + metadata. The action key supports read, metaData, create, update, delete, and duplicate. help.claris.com

  • Context-independent. Point to a layout in your JSON and eDAPI uses that context. No Go to Layout/Commit sequencing. help.claris.com

  • Local or hosted. It runs in your file and does not make a web service call to the Data API. help.claris.com

  • JSON in / JSON out. Pair with Get ( LastError ), Get ( LastErrorDetail ), and Get ( LastErrorLocation ) for diagnostics. help.claris.com

  • Concurrency-aware. Use modId on updates for optimistic concurrency. help.claris.com

  • Additional control. version supports v1, v2, vLatest; options.entrymode and options.prohibitmode let you follow or override validation/auto-enter rules when you need to. help.claris.com

 


 

Why teams find it useful

  • Shorter scripts. Many tasks become “build JSON → run one step.”

  • Fewer context issues. Read and write without leaving the user’s current layout.

  • Better interoperability. The JSON request/response makes it easy to work with web viewers, JavaScript, and Claris Connect.

  • Safer updates. modId helps avoid accidental overwrites when multiple users are editing.

 


 

Quick reference (keys you’ll use often)

  • action: read | metaData | create | update | delete | duplicate

  • layouts: target layout name (defines context)

  • tables: table occurrence name (for metaData)

  • query: array of find objects (standard FileMaker find operators)

  • recordId: internal ID for update/delete/duplicate

  • sort, offset, limit

  • fieldData: object of field:value pairs

  • portalData: object keyed by portal/TO name → array of related rows

  • modId: optimistic concurrency on update

  • layout.response: different layout for the response context (e.g., summary fields)

  • version: v1 | v2 | vLatest

  • options.entrymode: user | script

  • options.prohibitmode: user | script help.claris.com

 


 

Patterns and examples

Each example builds Request with JSONSetElement. Store the result in a variable and pretty-print with JSONFormatElements ( $$result ) while developing. Replace layout and field names with your own.

1) Read with a find and sort

// Returns last 100 paid orders from 2025, newest first

Execute FileMaker Data API [ Select ; Target: $$result ;

  JSONSetElement ( “{}” ;

    [ “layouts” ; “Orders_list” ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “query” ; “[ { \”Status\”:\”Paid\” , \”OrderDate\”:\”>=1/1/2025\” } ]” ; JSONArray ] ;

    [ “sort” ; “[ { \”fieldName\”:\”OrderDate\” , \”sortOrder\”:\”descend\” } ]” ; JSONArray ] ;

    [ “limit” ; 100 ; JSONNumber ]

  )

]

Set Variable [ $$result ; JSONFormatElements ( $$result ) ]

 

2) Create a record (temporarily allow a protected field)

Execute FileMaker Data API [ Select ; Target: $$result ;

  JSONSetElement ( “{}” ;

    [ “action” ; “create” ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “layouts” ; “Customers_edapi” ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “fieldData” ;

      “{ \”CustomerID\”:\”CUST-10027\” , \”Name\”:\”Acme Corp\” , \”Status\”:\”Active\” }” ;

      JSONObject

    ] ;

    [ “options” ; “{ \”prohibitmode\”:\”script\” , \”entrymode\”:\”user\” }” ; JSONObject ]

  )

]

 

3) Update with optimistic concurrency (modId)

Execute FileMaker Data API [ Select ; Target: $$result ;

  JSONSetElement ( “{}” ;

    [ “action” ; “update” ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “layouts” ; “Customers_edapi” ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “recordId” ; $recordId ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “modId” ; $expectedModId ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “fieldData” ; “{ \”Status\”:\”Inactive\” }” ; JSONObject ]

  )

]

If [ Get ( LastError ) = 0 ]

  # success

Else If [ Get ( LastError ) = 301 ]

  # record modified by another user; refetch and retry

End If

 

4) Create parent and related rows with portalData

Requires a layout with a portal where Allow creation of records is enabled for that table occurrence.

Execute FileMaker Data API [ Select ; Target: $$result ;

  JSONSetElement ( “{}” ;

    [ “action” ; “create” ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “layouts” ; “Orders_withLines_edapi” ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “fieldData” ; “{ \”CustomerID\”:\”CUST-10027\” , \”OrderDate\”:\”2/10/2025\” }” ; JSONObject ] ;

    [ “portalData” ;

      “{ \”Order_OrderLines\” : [

           { \”OrderLines::SKU\”:\”SKU-001\” , \”OrderLines::Qty\”:2 },

           { \”OrderLines::SKU\”:\”SKU-002\” , \”OrderLines::Qty\”:1 }

        ] }” ;

      JSONObject

    ]

  )

]

 

5) Duplicate and delete

// Duplicate

Execute FileMaker Data API [ Select ; Target: $$dup ;

  JSONSetElement ( “{}” ;

    [ “action” ; “duplicate” ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “layouts” ; “Orders_edapi” ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “recordId” ; $recordId ; JSONString ]

  )

]

 

// Delete

Execute FileMaker Data API [ Select ; Target: $$del ;

  JSONSetElement ( “{}” ;

    [ “action” ; “delete” ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “layouts” ; “Orders_edapi” ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “recordId” ; $recordId ; JSONString ]

  )

]

 

6) Discover structure with metaData

// List all table occurrences

Execute FileMaker Data API [ Select ; Target: $$tables ;

  JSONSetElement ( “{}” ;

    [ “action” ; “metaData” ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “tables” ; “” ; JSONString ]

  )

]

Set Variable [ $$tables ; JSONFormatElements ( $$tables ) ]

 

// List fields for a specific TO

Execute FileMaker Data API [ Select ; Target: $$fields ;

  JSONSetElement ( “{}” ;

    [ “action” ; “metaData” ; JSONString ] ;

    [ “tables” ; “Orders” ; JSONString ]

  )

]

Set Variable [ $$fields ; JSONFormatElements ( $$fields ) ]

 
 
 

 

Data Security Enhancements in FileMaker Cloud and Server

FileMaker 2025 brings a new level of security to both FileMaker Cloud and FileMaker Server, delivering critical enhancements in encryption, SSL handling, and API authentication. These updates are designed to help organizations strengthen data protection and meet stringent compliance requirements, including HIPAA, GDPR, and enterprise-grade security standards.

Whether deployed on-premises or in the cloud, FileMaker 2025 ensures that your sensitive business data stays safe, encrypted, and under your control.

Stronger Encryption and Data Protection

FileMaker 2025 enhances encryption protocols for both data at rest and data in transit. Improved key management and modern cipher support ensure that databases, backups, and network communications maintain top-tier protection.

For organizations managing confidential information—such as healthcare providers, financial institutions, and manufacturers—these encryption upgrades reinforce compliance with global privacy laws and data protection frameworks.

Simplified SSL Management with Let’s Encrypt

Setting up SSL certificates has historically been a challenge for administrators. FileMaker Server 2025 streamlines this process with Let’s Encrypt integration, allowing certificates to be issued and renewed automatically.

This eliminates the need for manual SSL management while ensuring that all connections remain encrypted and compliant with modern browser and network security requirements.

Benefits include:

  • Automatic SSL issuance and renewal

  • Reduced configuration errors

  • Continuous, secure connections across all deployments

Token-Based API Access for Secure Integrations

Both FileMaker Cloud and FileMaker Server now support token-based authentication for API access, replacing static credentials with dynamic, revocable tokens.

This approach enhances integration security by ensuring that credentials:

  • Expire automatically after a defined period

  • Can be scoped to specific permissions or resources

  • Are easily revoked if compromised

Token-based authentication reduces the attack surface and makes it easier to comply with HIPAA and GDPR requirements for data access auditing and control.

Compliance Made Easier

With these security upgrades, FileMaker 2025 provides organizations with a compliance-ready foundation. Key benefits include:

  • Encrypted data across all layers—storage, transfer, and access

  • Automated SSL configuration to prevent mismanagement

  • Secure, auditable API integrations using short-lived tokens

For industries handling sensitive personal or operational data, these improvements simplify compliance management without sacrificing performance or flexibility.

FileMaker 2025’s security enhancements in Cloud and Server reflect Claris’s continued commitment to protecting business-critical information. With improved encryption, automatic SSL handling, and token-based API access, organizations can maintain compliance and operate confidently in highly regulated environments.

Want to strengthen your FileMaker security posture or validate your setup for HIPAA or GDPR compliance? Reach out to Kyo Logic here.

 
 

 

Advanced Container Field Management and Image Processing

 FileMaker 2025 delivers powerful new tools for handling media-rich data with enhanced container field management and image processing capabilities. With built-in functions for image optimization, automated thumbnail generation, and metadata extraction, developers can now create apps that handle photos, documents, and media files more efficiently than ever.

For industries like manufacturing, field services, healthcare, or marketing—where images and documents play a critical role—these improvements make FileMaker faster, smarter, and easier to manage.

Automated Image Optimization and Thumbnails

Large image files can slow down databases and layouts, especially when users work remotely or on mobile devices. FileMaker 2025 introduces functions that automatically optimize images for size and performance, generating thumbnails without manual resizing or third-party tools.

Benefits include:

  • Faster record loading in layouts and portals

  • Reduced file size for container data

  • Consistent thumbnail previews across devices

This automation streamlines workflows for image-heavy apps, ensuring visual data is always accessible without compromising speed.

Built-In Metadata Extraction

FileMaker now allows developers to extract detailed metadata directly from container-stored images and files. This includes EXIF information such as:

  • Date, time, and location of photos

  • Camera settings (aperture, ISO, lens type)

  • Keywords or embedded tags

Developers can use this metadata to automatically categorize, filter, or search images—ideal for asset management, inspection records, or photographic documentation in the field.

Smarter Workflows for Media-Driven Apps

By combining optimization and metadata extraction, developers can build FileMaker apps that automatically handle complex image workflows:

  • Field Technicians: Capture site photos that automatically compress, tag, and upload with GPS data.

  • Manufacturers: Record product or defect images tied to work orders for quality assurance.

  • Marketing Teams: Manage brand assets with searchable tags and visual previews.

Every image becomes part of an intelligent, organized system rather than a static attachment.

Why It Matters

FileMaker’s new container field and image processing tools help businesses:

  • Reduce storage overhead while maintaining quality

  • Improve performance in image-heavy layouts

  • Automatically tag and classify visual data

  • Eliminate reliance on external file processors or plugins

With these updates, FileMaker 2025 evolves into a truly full-featured media management platform that integrates seamlessly with your existing workflows.

FileMaker 2025 empowers developers to manage and process images directly inside their apps—optimizing performance and automating organization. From generating thumbnails to extracting metadata, these enhancements make media-driven solutions faster, cleaner, and easier to maintain.

Want to see how Claris FileMaker can simplify image and document management for your organization?  Reach out to Kyo Logic here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is OData and How FileMaker Makes Data More Accessible

 If you’re managing data in FileMaker and exploring better ways to integrate with analytics or enterprise platforms, you’ve probably heard the term OData. But what is it, and why should FileMaker users care?

What is OData?

OData (Open Data Protocol) is a standardized way for systems to share data over the web, similar to how web pages are served to browsers. Think of it as a universal language that lets applications query, read, and write data through familiar web protocols like HTTP.

Created by Microsoft, OData is widely used across industries to connect databases to business intelligence tools, ERPs, and reporting dashboards.

What is the FileMaker OData API?

FileMaker now includes its own OData API, available on FileMaker Server 19.1 and later. This feature exposes FileMaker data using the OData v4 standard, meaning that you can connect your FileMaker databases directly to tools like:

  • Microsoft Power BI

  • Tableau

  • Excel (Power Query)

…and many other platforms that support OData. In addition it adds powerful capabilities to work with FileMaker server data including the ability to modify and create data structures programatically.  This feature is a major breakthrough for FileMaker Developers and promises powerful future capabilities for managing advanced FileMaker applications.

Why It Matters

If you’ve ever wanted to:

  • Build live dashboards in Power BI using FileMaker data

  • Query data from FileMaker without custom APIs or exports

  • Integrate FileMaker into larger enterprise data strategies

  • Open FileMaker applications for more advanced capabilities

…the OData API is a game-changer.

It means:

  • Less custom development to connect FileMaker to other systems

  • Standardized querying across platforms

  • Real-time data access for reporting and analytics

  • Improved FileMaker application support

What’s the Difference Between OData and FileMaker OData API?

  • OData: A universal protocol for data querying and manipulation.

  • FileMaker OData API: FileMaker’s specific implementation that lets external tools communicate with FileMaker databases using OData standards.

Is It Time to Upgrade?

If you’re on an older FileMaker Server version or still exporting data to spreadsheets, it’s time to explore how the FileMaker OData API can streamline your workflows.

Contact us today to discuss how we can help you unlock real-time data access and smarter analytics with FileMaker and OData.


 

 

 

New JSON Functions in FileMaker 2024/2025: What Developers Need to Know

New JSON Functions in FileMaker 2024/2025: What Developers Need to Know

With the release of FileMaker 2024 and 2025, Claris has significantly expanded its native JSON functions, making it easier for developers to work with structured data, integrate APIs, and build modern, scalable FileMaker solutions.

If you’re building or maintaining a FileMaker system, understanding these new JSON capabilities is essential to creating faster, more efficient, and more integrated applications.

Why JSON is a Big Deal in FileMaker

JSON is the data format of modern web services, APIs, OData and cloud platforms. FileMaker’s JSON functions let you generate, parse, and manipulate JSON directly within calculations and scripts.

If you want to:

  • Integrate with third-party APIs

  • Build flexible data structures

  • Communicate data more effectively within all FileMaker applications

  • Power Claris Connect and Event-Driven Connect workflows

…you need to master FileMaker’s JSON tools.

What’s New in FileMaker 2024 and 2025 for JSON

The most effective patterns combine newer capabilities like JSONGetElementType (2024) and the 2025 performance gains with long‑standing JSON toolsJSONListKeys, JSONListValues, JSONSetElement, and JSONGetElement. Use the newer functions to validate/branch, and the established ones to iterate, extract, and assemble payloads.

JSONGetElementType (2024)

  • Purpose: Returns the data type of a specified JSON element.

  • Why it matters: Lets you dynamically validate or branch logic based on whether a JSON value is an object, array, string, number, or boolean.

Set Variable [ $payload ; Value:

    “{ \”customer\”: { \”name\”: \”Alice\”, \”age\”: 30, \”address\”: { \”city\”: \”Boston\” } } }”

]


Set Variable [ $elementType ;

    Value: JSONGetElementType ( $payload ; “customer.address” )

]

// Returns: “object”

JSONListKeys (2018)

  • Purpose: Returns a list of all keys in a JSON object.

  • Why it matters: Essential for iterating through dynamic JSON objects when you don’t know the keys ahead of time.

Set Variable [ $payload ; Value:

    “{ \”customer\”: { \”name\”: \”Alice\”, \”age\”: 30, \”email\”: \”alice@example.com\” } }”

]


Set Variable [ $keys ;

    Value: JSONListKeys ( $payload ; “customer” )

]


// $keys returns:

// name

// age

// email

JSONListValues (2018)

  • Purpose: Returns a list of all values in a JSON object or array.

  • Why it matters: Simplifies extracting data from APIs or nested JSON arrays without needing to parse each element manually.

Set Variable [ $payload ; Value:

    “{ \”orders\”: [ \”Order001\”, \”Order002\”, \”Order003\” ] }”

]


Set Variable [ $values ;

    Value: JSONListValues ( $payload ; “orders” )

]


// $values returns:

// Order001

// Order002

// Order003


Improved Performance (2025)

  • Parsing and manipulating large JSON objects is faster and more memory-efficient in FileMaker 2025.

  • This is critical when handling big API responses or storing complex JSON in fields.


Practical Use Cases for Developers

1. API Integrations

When calling external APIs, these new functions make it easier to:

  • Parse API responses dynamically.

  • Validate data types before inserting into records.

  • Log errors or unexpected responses.

Example:

Set Variable [ $apiResponse ; Value: “{ \”status\”: \”success\”, \”data\”: { \”id\”: 123, \”amount\”: 49.99 } }” ]


If [ JSONGetElementType ( $apiResponse ; “data” ) = “object” ]

    Set Variable [ $transactionID ; Value: JSONGetElement ( $apiResponse ; “data.id” ) ]

    Set Variable [ $amount ; Value: JSONGetElement ( $apiResponse ; “data.amount” ) ]

End If

2. Dynamic UI Generation

  • Use JSONListKeys to build dynamic interfaces or repeat portals based on the number of returned fields.

Example:

Set Variable [ $fields ; Value: JSONListKeys ( $payload ; “customer” ) ]

Set Variable [ $fieldCount ; Value: ValueCount ( $fields ) ]


# Use $fieldCount to dynamically generate UI elements.

3. Claris Connect Workflows

  • Event-Driven Connect payloads rely on JSON—these functions help you parse incoming data and route it appropriately.

Example:

Set Variable [ $payload ; Value: Get(ScriptParameter) ]

Set Variable [ $eventType ; Value: JSONGetElement ( $payload ; “event.type” ) ]


If [ $eventType = “customer_update” ]

    # Process customer update logic

End If

4. Data Storage and Flexibility

  • Instead of creating new tables for every data variation, store flexible JSON blobs that can adapt as your data structures evolve.

Example:

Set Field [ Customer::Metadata ; JSONSetElement ( “” ;

    [ “preferences.newsletter” ; “true” ; JSONBoolean ] ;

    [ “preferences.language” ; “en” ; JSONString ]

)]


Quick Reference Table

Function

Introduced

Use Case

JSONGetElementType

2024

Validate data types

JSONListKeys

2018

Retrieve dynamic object keys

JSONListValues

2018

Extract lists of values


Developer Tip

When working with external APIs, combine these new JSON functions with Try / Catch scripting patterns, data validation routines, and robust error logging to ensure your integrations are stable and reliable.

Ready to Build Smarter with JSON?

If you’re maintaining an older FileMaker system, you’re missing out on these time-saving, game-changing functions. Contact us to discuss upgrading your solution or building new integrations powered by FileMaker 2025’s JSON toolkit.

Need help with your next integration? Let’s modernize your FileMaker environment today.



 

 

 

Building AI-Enhanced Workflows Across Your Organization

With FileMaker 2025, AI is no longer confined to individual apps. By combining Claris FileMaker’s native LLM capabilities with Claris Connect’s automation engine, organizations can now build end-to-end workflows that span multiple systems—without relying on extra middleware or third-party tools. This means you can harness AI to not only make smarter decisions inside FileMaker but also trigger actions across your broader tech stack.

From Single App to Multi-System Intelligence

In previous versions, AI-powered features were mostly limited to in-app tasks like summarizing records or generating content. With Claris Connect, those capabilities extend outward. A single AI trigger inside FileMaker can now launch processes across apps such as Slack, Google Sheets, Outlook, or a CRM—turning your database into an intelligent hub for your entire organization.

Examples of AI-Enhanced Workflows

  • Lead Intake: A prospect fills out a form in Claris Studio. FileMaker captures the record, uses an AI script to summarize or score the lead, then Claris Connect posts the summary to Slack and updates a Google Sheet.

  • Document Review: Contracts stored in FileMaker are run through AI to extract key terms. Claris Connect automatically sends flagged items to your legal team’s email queue for review.

  • Customer Support: AI summarizes incoming support tickets and routes them to the right department via Teams or Slack.

These kinds of workflows reduce manual effort, improve accuracy, and keep information flowing in real time.

No Extra Tools, No Extra Overhead

Because both FileMaker’s LLM features and Claris Connect’s automation are built into the Claris ecosystem, you don’t need additional APIs or subscription services to get started. Data stays inside your trusted environment while still connecting seamlessly to the systems your teams use every day.

Why It Matters

Bringing AI-enhanced workflows across your organization means:

  • Faster decisions by automating repetitive, multi-step processes

  • More consistent outcomes through standardized AI prompts and triggers

  • Reduced integration costs by eliminating separate middleware

  • Stronger data governance since sensitive information stays in FileMaker

With FileMaker 2025 and Claris Connect, AI becomes more than a feature—it becomes the backbone of cross-system workflows. From intake and scoring to document routing and reporting, you can build intelligent, automated processes that scale across your entire organization without leaving the Claris platform.

Interested in building AI-enhanced workflows tailored to your business? Reach out to Kyo Logic here.


 

 

 

Can Your FileMaker Do This: FileMaker vs AI Built Apps vs Enterprise Suites Guide

Can Your FileMaker Do This? FileMaker, AI-Built Apps, and Enterprise Suites: A Practical Guide

Teams have great options today. Enterprise suites like Salesforce or Oracle bring breadth and governance. AI-built apps (custom code with GPT-style copilots) offer full creative freedom. FileMaker 2025 (with Claris Studio + Claris Connect) adds a low-code layer for the everyday work: forms, approvals, exceptions, and quick changes.

This is about picking the right tool and helping them work well together.

The Landscape (What Each Does Best)

Enterprise Suites (Salesforce/Oracle/etc.)
Ideal as systems of record with strong data models, compliance, and mature ecosystems. Strong for standardized processes that don’t change often.

AI-Built Apps (custom code + copilots)
Great for new experiences and bespoke logic when you want full UI freedom or internet-scale delivery.

FileMaker 2025 (with Studio + Connect)
A natural fit as the operations layer for departmental workflows, field capture, and dashboards (the work that shifts month to month and involves real people and real context).

Why FileMaker (What It Does Uniquely Well)

  • Operations-in-a-box: Data, UI, scripts, and security in one place, so changes are fast and safe.

  • Governed agility: Roles, logging, and auditable changes without a sprawling codebase.

  • Field-ready inputs: FileMaker Go + Claris Studio handle photos, scans, GPS, signatures. No custom app required.

  • Event-driven automation: Event-Driven Connect turns record changes into Slack/Teams alerts, tickets, emails, and documents.

  • Standards at the edge: OData (Power BI), Data API/eDAPI, and JSON for clean hand-offs to the broader stack.

  • Incremental modernization: Keep Salesforce/Oracle steady; add FileMaker where hands-on work happens. Quick wins, low disruption.

Who tends to benefit most

  • Departments of 10–200 daily users (Ops, Supply Chain, Field Service, QA, Facilities, Finance Ops)

  • Teams juggling spreadsheets, email approvals, and plug-ins

  • Organizations that need mobile/web data capture without funding a full custom app build

Where Each Typically Wins

Enterprise suites are strong for: deep modules (CPQ/ERP), strict compliance, global scale with unified governance.

AI-built apps are strong for: highly branded, external-facing portals; novel algorithms/services; full framework freedom.

FileMaker is strong for: rapidly evolving or highly custom internal workflows, immediate field capture, event-driven automations, and fast time-to-value.

How FileMaker Works Alongside Salesforce/Oracle

Common patterns

  • Keep the system of record in Salesforce/Oracle.

  • Use FileMaker as a system of engagement where people enter, review, approve, and act.

  • Bridge them with:

    • Claris Connect for “when X happens → do Y” workflows

    • Data API/eDAPI for JSON hand-offs

    • OData for analytics in Power BI/Tableau

    • SSO (Okta/Azure AD) for unified identity

Example flows

  • Case Management: A case in Salesforce triggers a FileMaker triage workspace (Studio forms + dashboards); updates return to Salesforce.

  • Manufacturing/Logistics: Oracle holds inventory; FileMaker handles receiving, QC, and exceptions on the floor; results sync back via Connect/Data API.

  • Healthcare/Education: Core records live in the suite; FileMaker covers mobile intake, audits, and scheduling with role-based access.

Quick Start (Non-Technical)

  1. Choose one pain point outside the suite (spreadsheets, email approvals, field capture).

  2. Mirror the workflow in FileMaker/Studio: one browser form + one small dashboard.

  3. Connect to Salesforce/Oracle via Connect or Data API (start one-way, then add updates).

  4. Trigger actions on events (status change → Slack/Teams → ticket/doc/email).

  5. Pilot for two weeks and measure time saved, fewer errors, and faster visibility.

Next step: Want to see how this can look in your environment? We can stand up one FileMaker/Studio workflow, one automation, and one suite integration so you can evaluate impact before scaling.

 

 

 

Semantic Search Beyond Text: Image and File Embeddings

FileMaker 2025 continues to expand its AI capabilities with support for semantic search across not just text—but also images and files. With new vector and embedding functions, developers can now create smarter, context-aware searches that surface the most relevant content, whether it’s a paragraph in a PDF or a specific image stored in a container field.

This evolution transforms FileMaker from a traditional database into a true semantic data platform, where meaning—not just matching words—guides search results.

What Are Embeddings and Vectors?

At the core of semantic search are embeddings—mathematical representations of meaning. Text, images, and even file content can be converted into vector form, allowing FileMaker to compare their similarity based on context instead of keywords.

For example, a search for “eco-friendly packaging” could return:

  • Product descriptions mentioning “sustainable materials”

  • A PDF datasheet for recyclable containers

  • Images tagged with “biodegradable”

Even though those results don’t use the exact search term, FileMaker understands they’re conceptually related.

Searching Across Images, PDFs, and More

With vector and embedding functions, FileMaker 2025 can now perform semantic search on multiple content types, including:

  • Images: Find visually similar photos or product shots.

  • Documents: Locate PDFs or text files with related topics.

  • Notes and Descriptions: Match records based on concept, not wording.

This makes it possible to unify data that previously lived in silos—connecting written content, visuals, and supporting documents in one intelligent search interface.

Real-World Use Cases

  • Manufacturing: Locate quality control photos related to specific defect reports.

  • Healthcare: Retrieve reference materials or patient documents that align with a particular case.

  • Legal: Find similar contracts or clauses based on meaning rather than keywords.

  • Creative Industries: Search image libraries by theme, emotion, or visual style.

By understanding relationships across different data types, FileMaker enables more intuitive and efficient information retrieval.

Why It Matters

Semantic search with embeddings helps organizations:

  • Discover related insights faster, even in large or unstructured datasets

  • Reduce time spent hunting through files, folders, or records

  • Provide a unified, intelligent search experience for all content

  • Keep all search processing within the secure FileMaker environment

This means more time spent acting on insights—and less time searching for them.

FileMaker 2025 pushes search beyond keywords with AI-powered semantic capabilities that span text, images, and files. With vector and embedding functions, developers can build truly intelligent apps that surface the right content, every time—no matter the format.

Interested in exploring how semantic search can enhance your FileMaker solutions? Reach out to Kyo Logic here.