Claris releases version 21.1 of FileMaker Pro

Claris International Inc. has recently unveiled FileMaker Pro 21.1, a significant update to its renowned custom app development platform. This release introduces a host of new features and enhancements that cater to developers of all skill levels, from novices to seasoned professionals. Let's look into the key improvements and discuss how they can benefit developers and end-users alike.

Script step enhancements

New default settings: One of the most notable updates in version 21.1 is the introduction of new default settings for various script steps. For example, the 'Exit After Last' step, which previously defaulted to 'off', now defaults to 'on'. This makes so much more sense. This change is a good example of the script step changes that now better reflect common usage patterns and align with best practices in script execution. With approximately a dozen script steps receiving similar updates, developers will find that these adjustments save time and reduce the need for immediate alterations after creating scripts. However, users may need to adapt their habits to accommodate these new defaults, which might not be a bad thing, if they foster a more mindful approach to script management.

Perform Script on Server (PSoS) improvements: The PSoS feature has been enhanced to allow scripts to run concurrently on the server. This means that if a script calls another script while executing on the server, it will spawn a new session rather than waiting for the first script to complete. This improvement can significantly optimise processing times, allowing multiple tasks to be executed simultaneously without bottlenecks.

AI and semantic search updates

Expanded AI providers: The AI functionalities introduced in version 20.1 have been further developed in 21.1. Cohere has been added as an alternative provider for embeddings alongside OpenAI and Custom options for local Large Language Model (LLM) execution. This addition provides developers with more flexibility in choosing AI tools that best suit their needs.

Image embeddings: A significant advancement in this version is the ability to create embeddings from images, not just text. This feature allows developers to leverage existing script steps without needing new functions, making it easier to integrate image data into their applications.

Semantic find enhancements: The new 'Save Result' option for the Perform Semantic Find script step saves the cosine similarity results in JSON format. This enhancement allows developers to reconstruct found sets based on previous searches without rerunning the semantic search process, thus improving efficiency and reducing computational overhead.

Performance optimisations

Constrain Found Set improvements: The Constrain Found Set script step now includes an option that allows users to perform constraints without relying on table indexes. While this seems counterintuitive (since indexes are typically used for faster queries), this feature becomes particularly useful when dealing with large datasets (eg. with more than a million records) where the initial found set is relatively small (for example, only a dozen records). By bypassing the index traversal, performance can improve dramatically in these scenarios; tests have shown speed increases of over 150 times in some cases.

Data API and OData enhancements: The removal of bandwidth limits for both Data API and OData represents a significant shift in how developers can interact with their data. Previously metered access based on licensed users was annoying, to say the least. Now, users can retrieve as much data as needed without restrictions. This change simplifies architecture considerations and promotes smoother adoption of these APIs in various projects.

User interface and theme updates

Classic theme removal: The notorious Classic theme is generally regarded as an unattractive pest. In version 21.1, users can finally delete this theme from their files once no layouts are using it. This feature reduces risks associated with inadvertently creating new layouts that revert back to this outdated theme.

Default theme setting: Users can now set a default theme for their files via File >Manage >Themes. This update ensures that newly created layouts will not accidentally default to the Aqua Blue theme, which has often been considered unappealing by many developers.

Column width retention: A welcome enhancement in developer interfaces is the retention of column widths across tables, fields, value lists and custom functions. This feature saves time by eliminating the need for constant resizing during development sessions.

Security and validation improvements

Validation message customisation: In previous versions, validation messages were hard-coded and could not be tailored easily. With version 21.1, users can now create dynamic validation messages, using calculations based for example, on context or user roles and in practise, any fields or functions that you want. This flexibility allows for more meaningful feedback when data entry fails validation checks.

Security enhancements: A new checkbox in the security dialog restricts file references to only those files hosted on the same server, enhancing security protocols and ensuring tighter control over data access.

Admin Console updates

Email notifications: The Admin Console now includes email notifications for warning events in addition to errors, providing administrators with better oversight of system health.

File management: Users can filter files within any created folders or subfolders from the Admin Console, streamlining file management processes significantly.

Selective file opening: A new feature allows administrators to configure FileMaker Server to reopen only those files that were active at the last shutdown during restarts, improving efficiency when managing multiple databases.

WebDirect and connectivity improvements

WebDirect keyboard triggers: The introduction of OnObjectKeystroke and OnLayoutKeystroke triggers in WebDirect supports Enter, Return and Escape keys, enhancing user interaction capabilities within web applications built on FileMaker Pro.

HTTPS tunneling: Both macOS and Windows versions of FileMaker Pro now support HTTPS connections instead of relying solely on port 5003. This update enhances security by encrypting data transmitted between clients and servers.

Conclusion

The release of FileMaker Pro 21.1 brings substantial improvements that enhance developer productivity through optimised performance features and expanded functionality within AI integration. While these updates present exciting opportunities for database management and application development, effectively utilising them requires specialised knowledge of scripting and system architecture principles. FileMaker professionals are well advised to engage in continuous learning and skill enhancement to make good use of the latest improvements in their favourite database application.