Who is FileMaker for?
Claris FileMaker is ideal for businesses that have outgrown spreadsheets or off-the-shelf software but don't need the cost or complexity of a large enterprise system.
Then include examples:
Growing SMEs
Manufacturing
Distribution
Professional Services
Recruitment
Membership organisations
Charities
Why businesses choose FileMaker instead of Excel
| Excel | | Claris FileMaker |
| Single-user files | | Multi-user database |
| Manual data entry | | Automated workflows |
| Static spreadsheets | | Centralised business system |
| Limited security | | Role-based user permissions |
| Multiple file versions | | Single source of truth |
| Limited integrations | | Connects to SQL, APIs, Microsoft 365, Xero and more |
| Basic reporting | | Interactive dashboards and reports |
| Difficult to scale | | Designed to grow with your business |
Our Development Process
Every successful FileMaker project starts with understanding your business, not writing code.
We follow a structured development process that ensures your Claris FileMaker solution is designed around the way your business actually works, while remaining flexible enough to grow as your requirements evolve.
1. Discovery & Consultation
We begin by learning about your business, your current processes and the challenges you're trying to solve. Whether you're replacing spreadsheets, upgrading an existing FileMaker system or creating a completely new application, understanding your objectives is always the first step.
2. System Design
Once we understand your requirements, we design a database structure and workflow that reflects how your business operates. This includes planning user access, reporting, automation, integrations and future scalability.
3. Development
Your bespoke Claris FileMaker solution is developed using industry best practices, with regular opportunities for feedback throughout the project. This collaborative approach ensures the system evolves in line with your expectations.
4. Testing & Refinement
Before deployment, every system is thoroughly tested to ensure it performs reliably and meets your business requirements. Any adjustments identified during testing are completed before the system goes live.
5. Deployment
Once approved, your new FileMaker solution is deployed to your chosen environment, whether that's on-premise, cloud-hosted or our secure FileMaker hosting platform. We ensure the transition is as smooth as possible with minimal disruption to your business.
6. Training & Support
We provide guidance and training where required, helping your team get the most from the new system. Clear practical advice ensures users feel confident from day one.
7. Ongoing Development
Business requirements rarely stand still. As your organisation grows, your FileMaker solution can grow with it. We continue to provide support, enhancements, new features and integrations to ensure your system continues to deliver value for many years.
Why businesses choose this approach
Unlike off-the-shelf software, a bespoke Claris FileMaker solution evolves alongside your business. By taking the time to understand your processes before development begins, we create systems that reduce administration, improve reporting, automate repetitive tasks and continue to meet your needs as your organisation grows.
