How FileMaker Provides Stability to Mobile Development?
Despite being designed originally as a cross-platform relational database application, FileMaker nowadays is being used as a platform to develop mobile apps for iPhone and iPad. As mobile application developers and resellers target Apple devices to get higher returns, FileMaker has emerged as widely used iOS app development platform. The simple and easy-to-use platform further makes it easier for professionals to create mobile apps without having in-depth knowledge of Apple’s Xcode development environment and Objective-C programming. The most recent version of FileMaker Pro also comes with a set of new features to provide stability to mobile application development.
FileMaker Features that provide Stability to Mobile Development
No Need to Assemble Libraries
FileMaker Pro comes with the features required to crate robust iOS apps within a shorter span of time. The developers can avoid writing lengthy code by availing features like business logic, integrated workflow, data validation, searching and sorting, integrated relational database capabilities, and option to store images, videos and files. They can further start developing apps by using the data stored in existing Microsoft Excel spreadsheets and other data sources. Thus, the developers are not required to put extra effort to add functionality to the app by assembling libraries. They can avail these built-in features and capabilities to accomplish common mobile tasks.
Smooth Interaction with Existing Business Systems
Often custom iOS apps are required to exchange data with existing business systems. Developers have to write lengthy code to make the app exchange data with ERP applications, SQL engines, spreadsheets and other data sources. For instance, an app may connect to a data source, fetch the required information, and present the data to the end users with charts. FileMaker Pro makes it easier for programmers to facilitate the interaction between the app and business systems by supporting ODBC, JDBC, XML and other open exchange formats. Also, programmers can avail the built-in connections for MySQL, SQL Server, Oracle and External SQL Data Sources (ESS).
Deploy and Update Apps without Any User Action
When a custom mobile application is being updated, it will have a huge impact on users. Some apps further become inaccessible till the deployment process is over. But FileMaker enables businesses to update their mobile apps immediately, regardless of the device on which it is running. A user can access the updated version of the application, if the device is connected to a FileMaker Server. For instance, if a business decides to introduce a new form to capture sales data, it can be pushed immediately to the iOS devices connected to its server. Thus, the end users can access the form without downloading the updates.
Easy to Implement Role Based Security
Often developers have to put extra time and effort to implement role based security. But FileMaker Pro enables them to implement role based security without writing complex code. They can simply choose the field, form or table that needs to be accessed only by authorized users or group of users. They also have option to manage the access privileges through FileMaker Server Admin Console or integrating any other authentication systems with FileMaker Server.
FileMaker 13 Features
The most recent version of FileMaker comes with a set of features to effectuate iOS app development. The revamped Layout/Report Assistant provided by FileMaker 13 makes it easier for developers to create reports and layout optimized for iPhone and iPad. The programmers can further use predefined screen dimensions, views, and themes to design reports and layouts for different Apple devices. Likewise, they can create iOS-style popovers for iOS devices by grouping links, field and similar information without moving to other layouts or windows. These features make it easier for developers to optimize the look, feel and performance of their mobile apps for different Apple devices.
The FileMaker 13 platform comes with a set of innovative features to speed up mobile development. Along with providing additional support to native iOS behaviors, the platform aims to deliver the best experience to mobile app developers. An enterprise can always switch to FileMaker 13 platform to add stability to its mobile development efforts. To get maximum benefits of Filemaker, you may consider hiring services of a Filemaker application development company.
We provide Filemaker development services. If you would like to talk to one of our certified Filemaker developers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.