Tag: FileMaker

“The data doesn’t lie.” You’ve likely heard this saying in meetings and stand-ups. Projects live and die by the data. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are the final measure of success, no matter how much teams loved a pet project. Data is critical. Companies that can effectively harness their data to uncover insights and trends are better positioned to stay ahead of the competition and drive revenue growth. Oftentimes for mid-size businesses, “data analytics” sounds like it’s out of budget, especially for specialized fields that don’t offer out-of-the box solutions with databases that fit specific needs.

But custom FileMaker solutions offer a powerful and flexible platform for data analytics, empowering businesses to turn raw data into actionable insights that inform strategic decision-making.

The Power of Data Analytics in Business

Data analytics has become an essential tool for businesses of all sizes, providing a means to analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns, trends, and opportunities. Whether it’s understanding customer behavior, optimizing operations, or forecasting future performance, data analytics enables businesses to make decisions based on solid evidence rather than intuition or guesswork.

However, for many organizations, the challenge lies in managing and analyzing the data effectively. This is where custom FileMaker solutions come into play. FileMaker’s robust and customizable platform allows businesses to integrate data from multiple sources, automate data collection processes, and generate comprehensive reports—all within a single, user-friendly interface.

Custom FileMaker Solutions: Turning Data into Insights

Custom FileMaker solutions are designed to meet the specific needs of a business, providing tailored tools that make it easier to manage and analyze data. With FileMaker, businesses can create custom dashboards and reports that display real-time data, enabling them to monitor KPIs and track progress toward goals.

For instance, a sales team could use a custom FileMaker solution to track customer interactions, monitor sales pipelines, and analyze conversion rates. By visualizing this data through interactive dashboards, the team can quickly identify which strategies are working and where adjustments need to be made. This level of insight not only enhances day-to-day operations but also supports long-term strategic planning.

Informed Decision-Making for Revenue Growth

One of the most significant benefits of leveraging data analytics with FileMaker is the ability to make informed decisions that directly impact revenue growth. With access to real-time data and detailed analysis, businesses can identify opportunities to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize their offerings to meet customer needs.

For example, a retail business might use FileMaker to analyze sales data across different locations, product lines, and customer segments. By identifying which products are selling well and which are underperforming, the business can adjust its inventory and marketing strategies accordingly. Additionally, predictive analytics can be employed to forecast future sales trends, enabling the business to proactively prepare for market changes and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

In a competitive business environment, the ability to leverage data analytics for strategic decision-making is a game-changer. Custom FileMaker solutions provide the tools and flexibility needed to turn raw data into actionable insights, empowering businesses to make decisions that drive revenue growth and ensure long-term success. By investing in a custom FileMaker solution, businesses can gain a deeper understanding of their operations, identify new opportunities, and stay ahead of the competition in an increasingly data-driven world.

We live in an age where entire industries seem to spring up overnight. New ideas and innovations are turned into powerful products and services. Technology and creativity allow us to fill hyper-specialized niches, and build viable businesses serving very specific customer segments. “Niche businesses” could refer to something as popular as a hot yoga studio or ecommerce business, or something as specific as a manufacturer of highly-specialized tools for commercial plumbers.

Regardless of the industry you find yourself in, these specialized business ventures often require specialized tools themselves. An out-of-the-box CMS or point-of-sale software just doesn’t cut it. “Custom” is often correlated with “expensive.” But in the case of custom FileMaker solutions, that isn’t the case.

Flexibility and Scalability

One of the most significant advantages of custom FileMaker solutions is their flexibility and scalability. Unlike off-the-shelf software, which often forces you to adapt your business processes to fit its design, a custom FileMaker solution is built around your specific requirements. This means you only pay for the features you need, avoiding the unnecessary costs associated with generic software.

As your business grows, your software needs will evolve. FileMaker solutions can be easily scaled to accommodate this growth. Whether you need to add more users, integrate new features, or expand functionality, custom FileMaker solutions can be adapted without the high costs associated with switching to a new system.

Reduced Licensing Fees

Off-the-shelf software typically involves recurring licensing fees, which can add up over time. For instance, a software package that costs $100 per user per month for a team of 50 can result in an annual expense of $60,000. In contrast, custom FileMaker solutions usually involve a one-time development cost with significantly lower ongoing maintenance fees. This pricing model can result in substantial savings, especially for businesses with many users.

Customization for Specific Needs

One size does not fit all when it comes to business software. Generic software often includes features that your business may never use, yet you still pay for them. With a custom FileMaker solution, the software is designed specifically for your business processes. This customization ensures that you get the exact functionality you need, enhancing productivity and efficiency.

For example, if your business requires a unique workflow for managing client information, a custom FileMaker solution can be built to streamline this process. This tailored approach not only saves time but also reduces costs by eliminating the need for workarounds or additional software.

Integration with Existing Systems

Many businesses use multiple software systems to manage different aspects of their operations. Integrating these systems can be complex and costly, especially with off-the-shelf software that may not be designed for interoperability. Custom FileMaker solutions, however, can be built to integrate seamlessly with your existing systems. This integration capability reduces the need for manual data entry and minimizes errors, saving both time and money.

For instance, a custom FileMaker solution can be integrated with your accounting software, CRM, and other business applications. This seamless integration ensures that data flows smoothly between systems, enhancing overall efficiency and reducing operational costs.

Lower Training Costs

Training employees to use new software can be time-consuming and expensive. Off-the-shelf software often comes with a steep learning curve, requiring extensive training to ensure that all employees can use it effectively. Custom FileMaker solutions, however, are designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. Since they are tailored to your existing processes, employees can adapt more quickly, reducing the time and costs associated with training.

Enhanced Security and Compliance

Data security is a critical concern for businesses of all sizes. Off-the-shelf software may not offer the level of security or compliance required for your industry. Custom FileMaker solutions can be built with robust security features tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that sensitive data is protected. This customization can help you avoid costly data breaches and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

Custom FileMaker solutions offer a cost-effective alternative to off-the-shelf software, providing flexibility, scalability, and tailored functionality. By reducing licensing fees, lowering training costs, and integrating seamlessly with existing systems, these solutions can fit within your budget while meeting your specific business needs. Investing in a custom FileMaker solution can lead to significant cost savings and improved operational efficiency, making it a smart choice for businesses looking to optimize their software investments.

If you’re looking for ways FileMaker can help you, reach out to Kyo Logic here. We’ll provide a free consultation and walk you through opportunities and options.

7/17/2024 – This month, Douglas Wallis, Product Manager at Claris, will be joining us to present the new features included in the recent release of FileMaker 2024. In addition, Steven Blackwell will be showing the group a couple major security issues that the FileMaker 2024 release has resolved.

 

Organizations need tools that not only improve productivity but also facilitate collaboration among team members, ensuring effective teamwork and seamless communication. FileMaker, a versatile and powerful platform by Claris, offers robust features designed to enhance both productivity and collaboration.

Centralized Data Management

One of the most significant advantages of using FileMaker is its ability to centralize data. In many organizations, data is often scattered across various systems and platforms, leading to inefficiencies and miscommunication. FileMaker provides a unified platform where all relevant data can be stored, accessed, and managed from a single location. This centralization ensures that everyone on the team is working with the same information, reducing errors and improving consistency.

Real-Time Collaboration

FileMaker supports real-time collaboration, allowing multiple users to access and work on the same database simultaneously. This feature is particularly beneficial for teams that need to update information frequently or work on projects together. With FileMaker, team members can see changes made by others in real-time, ensuring that everyone is on the same page. This capability eliminates the need for back-and-forth emails or waiting for updates, significantly speeding up the workflow.

Customizable User Roles and Permissions

In any collaborative environment, it’s crucial to manage access to data and functionality based on user roles. FileMaker allows you to customize user roles and permissions, ensuring that team members have access to the information they need while protecting sensitive data. By assigning different levels of access, you can ensure that each team member can contribute effectively without compromising the security of your data.

Integrated Communication Tools

FileMaker can be integrated with various communication tools, such as email and instant messaging platforms, to streamline communication within the organization. For example, you can set up automatic email notifications for specific events or updates within the database, keeping team members informed without the need for manual intervention. This integration ensures that important information is communicated promptly and efficiently, reducing the likelihood of miscommunication.

Enhanced Project Management

Effective project management is critical for collaboration, and FileMaker excels in this area. The platform allows you to create custom project management applications tailored to your team’s specific needs. These applications can include features such as task assignments, progress tracking, and deadline reminders, ensuring that everyone knows their responsibilities and deadlines. By having a clear overview of the project status, teams can collaborate more effectively and ensure that projects are completed on time.

Mobile Access

In today’s mobile-first world, having access to your work on the go is essential. FileMaker’s mobile capabilities allow team members to access and update information from their smartphones or tablets, no matter where they are. This flexibility ensures that collaboration doesn’t stop when team members are out of the office, enhancing productivity and responsiveness.

Integrations with Other Tools

FileMaker’s ability to integrate with other tools and systems further enhances its collaborative capabilities. Whether it’s integrating with CRM systems, accounting software, or other business applications, FileMaker ensures that data flows seamlessly between different platforms. This integration reduces the need for manual data entry and ensures that all team members have access to up-to-date information across different systems.

FileMaker’s robust collaboration features make it an invaluable tool for organizations looking to improve teamwork and communication. By centralizing data, supporting real-time collaboration, and offering customizable user roles, FileMaker ensures that teams can work together more effectively. Additionally, its integrations with other tools and mobile capabilities make it a flexible and powerful solution for modern businesses. Investing in a custom FileMaker solution can transform your organization’s productivity and collaboration, leading to better outcomes and a more cohesive team.

At Kyo Logic, we specialize in creating custom FileMaker solutions that enhance productivity and collaboration for businesses of all sizes. Our expert team works closely with you to design and implement systems tailored to your unique needs, ensuring that your team can work together seamlessly and efficiently. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business thrive with a custom FileMaker solution.

In the competitive landscape of modern business, efficient and effective operations are critical. Many companies find themselves trapped between the high costs of off-the-shelf software and the inefficiencies of manual processes. Custom software development, particularly using platforms like FileMaker, offers a compelling alternative that can deliver substantial return on investment (ROI).

Direct Cost Savings

1. Reduced Licensing Fees

Off-the-shelf software often comes with recurring licensing fees that can add up significantly over time. Custom FileMaker solutions, on the other hand, involve a one-time development cost with minimal recurring expenses. For example, a business paying $100 per user per month for a software license with 50 users incurs an annual cost of $60,000. A custom solution could dramatically reduce or even eliminate these ongoing fees.

2. Tailored Functionality

Out-of-the-box software may include features that are unnecessary for your business, or it might lack critical functionalities, requiring additional third-party integrations. Custom FileMaker solutions are built to fit your exact needs, ensuring that you are only paying for what you use. This tailored approach not only reduces costs but also increases efficiency, as employees spend less time navigating unnecessary features or seeking workarounds.

3. Improved Efficiency and Productivity

Manual processes are time-consuming and prone to errors. Custom software can automate routine tasks, reduce errors, and streamline workflows. For instance, if a custom FileMaker solution saves each employee just one hour per week, for a company with 50 employees, that’s 2,600 hours saved annually. Assuming an average hourly wage of $25, this translates to $65,000 in labor cost savings per year.

Indirect Cost Savings

1. Scalability and Flexibility

Custom solutions are designed to grow with your business. Unlike off-the-shelf software that might require expensive upgrades or new licenses as your business expands, a FileMaker solution can be scaled and modified to meet your changing needs at a lower incremental cost. This flexibility prevents the disruption and costs associated with migrating to new systems.

2. Enhanced Data Security

Data breaches can be costly, both in terms of financial loss and reputational damage. Custom FileMaker solutions offer enhanced security tailored to your business’s specific requirements, reducing the risk of breaches. A secure, custom-built database ensures that sensitive information is protected, potentially saving millions in breach-related costs.

3. Reduced Training Costs

With custom software, training costs are typically lower because the system is built around your existing workflows and processes. Employees can adapt more quickly to a familiar interface designed to meet their specific needs, reducing the time and cost associated with training on new, generic software platforms.

Calculating Your Potential ROI

To calculate the potential ROI of a custom FileMaker solution, consider the following steps:

1. Identify Current Costs: Calculate your current software licensing fees, labor costs for manual processes, costs of inefficiencies, and any other relevant expenses.
2. Estimate Development Costs: Obtain a detailed quote for the custom FileMaker solution, including initial development and ongoing maintenance costs.
3. Project Savings and Revenue: Estimate the cost savings from reduced licensing fees, improved efficiency, and other direct and indirect benefits. Also, consider any potential revenue increases from enhanced productivity and new capabilities.

Investing in a custom FileMaker solution offers significant cost savings and operational benefits over off-the-shelf software and manual processes. By carefully calculating the ROI, businesses can make informed decisions that align with their long-term strategic goals. Custom software development not only addresses specific business needs more effectively but also delivers a competitive edge through increased efficiency, flexibility, and security.

If you’re looking for ways FileMaker can help you, reach out to Kyo Logic here. We’ll provide a free consultation and walk you through opportunities and options.

Staying ahead often means knowing when it’s time to upgrade your systems. Whether you’re grappling with sluggish performance, compatibility issues, or an inability to keep up with growing demands, these signs are not just signals of a system at its limit but clear indicators that modernization is essential.

1. Slow Performance: Your database is noticeably slower than it used to be, causing delays in retrieving or entering data. This slowdown can impact productivity and frustrate users who rely on efficient access to information. The root cause might stem from outdated hardware, inefficient database design, or limitations in processing capabilities that were not an issue when the system was initially set up. Upgrading to modern database software like Claris FileMaker can alleviate these issues by optimizing performance, improving query response times, and enhancing overall system efficiency.
2. Compatibility Issues: Increasing difficulty in integrating with other business systems or adapting to new software updates can hinder operational workflows. Outdated database systems may struggle with compatibility issues due to lack of support for modern APIs or difficulties in interacting with newer technologies. Claris FileMaker offers robust integration capabilities and supports various data formats, ensuring seamless interaction with other applications and systems. This compatibility extends across platforms, enabling smoother transitions and enhanced functionality as your business evolves.
3. Limited Scalability: As your business grows, your database struggles to handle increased data volume, user load, or transaction rates, leading to performance bottlenecks. Older database systems may have limitations in scaling horizontally or vertically to accommodate growth, resulting in slower response times and potential downtime during peak usage periods. Claris FileMaker provides easy scalability options, allowing you to expand your database infrastructure efficiently without compromising performance or data integrity. This scalability ensures your system can grow alongside your business needs, adapting seamlessly to increased demands.
4. Security Concerns: Outdated security measures or lack of compliance with current data protection standards can expose sensitive information to risks such as data breaches or unauthorized access. Aging database systems may lack advanced encryption protocols, robust user authentication mechanisms, or audit trails necessary to safeguard data effectively. Claris FileMaker offers built-in security features like SSL/TLS encryption, role-based access controls, and data encryption at rest, ensuring your data remains secure and compliant with industry regulations. Strengthening your database security with modern tools mitigates risks and enhances data protection across your organization.
5. Lack of Mobile Access: Inability to access or update the database from mobile devices limits flexibility and productivity for mobile workforces or remote teams. Legacy database systems may not support mobile-friendly interfaces or lack synchronization capabilities with modern mobile platforms. Claris FileMaker addresses these challenges with native mobile app development and synchronization features, allowing users to securely access and update data from iOS and Android devices. This mobile accessibility improves workforce efficiency, facilitates real-time data updates, and supports agile business operations wherever your team operates.
6. Outdated User Interface: Users find it challenging to navigate or perform tasks efficiently due to an outdated or unintuitive interface. Legacy database systems may have outdated UI design patterns or lack customization options for user preferences, leading to increased training time and user frustration. Claris FileMaker empowers organizations to create modern and intuitive user interfaces with drag-and-drop functionality, customizable layouts, and themes. Enhancing the user experience with a streamlined interface improves productivity, reduces errors, and fosters user adoption across your organization.
7. High Maintenance Costs: Rising costs in terms of time and resources spent on maintaining and troubleshooting the database strain IT budgets and resources. Legacy systems may require specialized skills or outdated technologies that are costly to maintain and support. Claris FileMaker offers a low-code development environment and simplified deployment processes, reducing maintenance overhead and total cost of ownership. This cost efficiency allows organizations to allocate resources more effectively, ensuring reliable system performance and supportability without excessive financial strain.
8. Reporting and Analytics Limitations: Difficulty in generating timely and accurate reports or analyzing data hampers decision-making processes and business insights. Older database systems may lack advanced reporting tools, real-time analytics capabilities, or integration with business intelligence platforms. Claris FileMaker includes robust reporting and analytics features, such as built-in charting tools, SQL database connectivity, and integration with external analytics solutions. Empowering users with comprehensive reporting capabilities enhances visibility into business operations, facilitates data-driven decisions, and supports strategic planning initiatives effectively.
9. Compliance and Regulatory Issues: Inability to meet new regulatory requirements or industry standards due to limitations of the current database system exposes your organization to compliance risks and potential penalties. Aging database systems may not support compliance features such as data auditing, GDPR requirements, or industry-specific regulations. Claris FileMaker provides compliance-ready features and supports GDPR principles, HIPAA compliance, and other regulatory requirements. Ensuring data integrity and regulatory compliance with modern database solutions safeguards your organization from legal liabilities and regulatory fines, maintaining trust with stakeholders and protecting your brand reputation.
10. Customer or User Dissatisfaction: Complaints from users about system reliability, speed, or accessibility issues affect overall user satisfaction and productivity. Legacy systems may fail to meet user expectations for performance, responsiveness, or ease of use, leading to frustration and reduced efficiency. Upgrading to Claris FileMaker improves system reliability, enhances performance, and provides a more intuitive user experience. Addressing these user concerns fosters higher satisfaction levels, increases user adoption rates, and enhances overall productivity across your organization.

Each of these signs highlights a critical area where upgrading to Claris FileMaker can address current challenges, improve operational efficiency, and future-proof your database infrastructure to support your organization’s growth and success.

Whether it’s due to hardware failure or simple obsolescence, most companies find themselves with a stack of laptops or a crate of desktops that simply aren’t seeing use. Whether they’re shoved into a closet at the fringes of the office or sitting in a corner of an IT experts WFH desk, these devices are taking up space.

Eventually, it becomes necessary to dispose of them. But there are two important factors to consider. The first is the environment– there are specific avenues to ensuring safe disposal. The second is security and data protection. Even factory reset machines can still contain bits of sensitive information, accessible by anyone savvy enough to know where to poke around.

If you don’t have a formal policy already, it’s important your company create and distribute one immediately, both for wiping sensitive data and when and how to dispose of the hardware itself.

Cleaning and Wiping Old Computers

When it comes to old computers that are no longer in use but contain sensitive data, simply deleting files or formatting the hard drive is not enough. These methods do not completely erase the data and leave it vulnerable to being recovered by malicious actors. To ensure your data is properly wiped:

1. Use Data Wiping Software: Utilize specialized data wiping software that overwrites the entire hard drive multiple times with random patterns of data. This process ensures that previous data cannot be recovered.
2. Consult IT Professionals: If you’re unsure about the process or dealing with complex systems, consulting IT professionals can provide expertise in securely wiping data without risking accidental data leakage.
3. Remove and Destroy Hard Drives: For extremely sensitive information or when retiring computers, physically removing and destroying the hard drives is a foolproof method. Shredding or degaussing the drives renders them unusable and ensures data cannot be recovered. In some instances, it may make sense to keep and archive the hard drives themselves.

Safely Disposing of Old Computers

Once data has been securely wiped from old computers, the next step is environmentally responsible disposal:

1. Recycling Programs: Many electronics retailers and manufacturers offer recycling programs for old computers and components. These programs ensure that electronic waste is properly disposed of or refurbished for reuse.
2. Certified E-Waste Recyclers: Choose recyclers certified by recognized standards (e.g., R2, e-Stewards) to ensure that recycling practices meet environmental and data security standards.
3. Donate or Sell Responsibly: If your old computers are still functional, consider donating them to schools, nonprofits, or refurbishing programs. Ensure data is wiped before donation or sale to protect sensitive information.

Should You Keep Hard Drives?

Whether to keep hard drives depends on your organization’s policies and legal requirements. In general:

• Data Retention Policies: Follow internal policies and legal requirements for retaining data. If data is no longer needed or if keeping the hard drive poses security risks, it’s best to securely wipe or destroy it.
• Backup and Archival: Consider archiving important data to secure storage solutions or cloud services before disposing of old hard drives.

Office maintenance isn’t just about dusting off desks and organizing files—it’s also about responsibly managing digital assets like old computers. By securely wiping data and responsibly disposing of old computers through recycling or donation, you not only protect sensitive information but also contribute to environmental sustainability.

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.