This tutorial will teach you how to create a simple database in FileMaker Pro. In today’s blog, for Part 2, we’ll review relationships, importing data, and building layouts.

Relationships

A relationship can link records in one table to records in another table. It connects tables using a primary key and a foreign key. The primary key is the field that uniquely identifies each individual or subject, and the foreign key is the field that identifies a record in another table. Think about it like connecting a contact ID in one table (primary key) to the same contact ID in another table (foreign key), ensuring that the correct data is maintained. 

Importing Data

Now that you have the relationships in place, it’s time to import your data into the FileMaker database. If you have a spreadsheet containing the data that you are needing to import, you will go to File > Import Records > File.

Assuming this data is being added to your new (empty) Table, you can simply select to add the Data Source to the Target (new Table). On the left hand side, you’ll notice it says to “Specify the import order”, which gives you the option below to switch from using Data to Use as Field Names. Selecting Field Names indicates the first row you are importing are field names and it will allow you to manually match the Source Fields to the appropriate Target Field. 

Once this is completed, you can click Import and should receive an Import Records Summary to verify. 

Building Layouts

Now that you've added some data to your database, you're ready to start building forms. Forms allow users to enter data into your database. They also provide an easy way to collect contact information, such as email addresses, phone numbers, and mailing addresses. Today, we will continue using the “contacts” layout with the imported data. If you would like to add a new layout, under Layout mode, click New Layout in the upper left hand corner. Select the appropriate device and layout format. 

Back to our “contacts” layout, making sure you’re in Layout mode, use the Field Picker to drag and drop the fields you would like to use, such as First Name, Last Name, Phone Number, etc. If you want to take it a step further, within each layout there are Layout Tools located at the top of Layout mode. You can add a variety of objects such as a portal, text, or buttons to fully build and customize your layout.

Switch to Browse mode and you’ll find your imported data listed - you’ve officially created a FileMaker layout.

Need further assistance?

The FileMaker Basics for Beginner’s articles only touch the very basics to familiarize yourself with this platform. If you’re feeling in need of more guidance, our PK developers are FileMaker certified and our team is here to help with a variety of tasks from database development to mobile apps to API integration. We offer a FileMaker Developer Course that teaches you how to design, build, and implement your own database and you can check out our range of services or just click here to get in touch!

PK Information is a FileMaker-certified development agency serving the Tampa Bay and Knoxville regions. We believe that great software can change everything. Would your database benefit from a process review? Contact us today!