If you already use Claris FileMaker Pro, you may know how to work with records and find information in a solution. But what if you want to create your own solution or understand how the pieces of a FileMaker application fit together?
Moving from using FileMaker to developing with it starts with learning the fundamentals. You need to understand how to organize information, build layouts for entering and viewing data, and connect parts of your solution so they work together.
The Claris FileMaker Pro Beginner course from Productive Computing University introduces these concepts through a hands-on project. You’ll create a basic FileMaker solution for storing contacts, adding notes, and tracking projects, giving you a starting point to explore development for yourself.
Learn by Building a Working Solution
Learning development concepts can be easier when you can see how they apply to something you’re building. Rather than studying features in isolation, this beginner course walks you through creating a basic system and exploring the tools that make it work.
You’ll learn about application fundamentals, data entry layouts, relationships, single-step buttons, layout tools and objects, layout features, and file options and preferences.
These topics introduce several building blocks of FileMaker development. Layouts help you present and enter information, while relationships help connect data. Buttons can provide a way to initiate an action, and file options and preferences help you understand how a solution is configured.
Together, these concepts give you an initial understanding of how a FileMaker solution is put together and provide a foundation for future projects.
Explore What You Can Create with FileMaker
Claris FileMaker Pro is a low-code database application that lets you bring different types of data together and present information in ways that suit your needs. Depending on the solution you’re building, that might include forms, tables, charts, dashboards, or reports.
Once you understand the basics, you can begin thinking about how those capabilities might apply to your own work. You might want to organize contacts, keep track of projects, or create a more tailored way to manage information.
The beginner course gives you an opportunity to explore these possibilities without requiring previous software development experience. It can also help you decide which areas of FileMaker development you want to learn about next.
Build a Foundation for Continued Learning
Getting comfortable with the fundamentals is an important first step, but it doesn’t mean you need to learn every FileMaker feature at once. As you gain experience, you can build on what you’ve learned and explore more advanced development topics.
The Claris FileMaker Pro Beginner course is designed for people who want to learn how to create their own FileMaker solutions, including those exploring a possible career in development. It provides a starting point for understanding how FileMaker applications are built and how individual features contribute to a working system.
If you’re ready to move beyond using an existing solution and start learning how to build one, PCU’s beginner course offers a practical introduction to the process.
This course is part of the FileMaker Pro training series from PCU. You can purchase the courses individually or get them all with our University Bundle and learn at your own pace. We also offer a structured FileMaker Certification Program with hands-on training, mentorship from a certified developer, and evaluations. It gives you an opportunity to develop your FileMaker skills progressively, from foundational concepts through advanced development and integration topics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need programming or FileMaker experience to take this course?
No previous FileMaker or software development experience is required. The course introduces the fundamentals for people who are new to development.
What will I build during the course?
You’ll work through a basic FileMaker solution for entering and managing information such as contacts and projects. Along the way, you’ll learn about layouts, relationships, buttons, and other foundational development concepts.
Is this course suitable if I want to become a FileMaker developer?
Yes. The course is intended for anyone interested in learning Claris FileMaker development, including people who want to explore development as a career. It provides a foundation you can build on through further learning.
Should I take another course before starting?
If you’re new to the Claris Platform, we recommend completing A User’s Guide to Claris FileMaker Pro first. If you’re already comfortable using FileMaker, the Beginner course introduces the development concepts needed to begin creating your own solutions.
Click here to sign up today for the Claris FileMaker Pro Beginner course.
Other products and services Productive Computing, Inc. offers:
- What can PCI do for you? – overview of our services
- Health Assessment – a comprehensive report of your FileMaker system
- Consulting and Development – services billed by the hour
- Maintenance and Support – services billed monthly
- Packaged Services – Security Audit, SSL or Server Installation
- Plug-ins – tools to integrate with QuickBooks, Outlook, Google, and more
- Solutions – free customizable and scalable CRM template
- Claris and FileMaker Licensing – discounts on new seats and renewals
- FileMaker and QuickBooks Hosting – host your files in the cloud
- Productive Computing University – online beginner to advanced training courses
- Certification Programs – expert-led training, hands-on development, and personalized evaluations
