We’ve seen FileMaker used hundreds of ways to develop mission-critical applications. In fact, we’ve helped many of these companies build them.
But where we’ve been able to make a big difference to these businesses is in our modernization services. Technology advances are occurring at a breakneck speed, and companies are expected to keep up. We strive to help clients beyond upgrading to the latest version of FileMaker. Our team aims weave modern features and functionality into the applications themselves.
JavaScript + FileMaker
JavaScript Benefits
The versatile programming language of JavaScript allows you to add dynamic and interactive features to websites. It provides real-time feedback and supports asynchronous processing (AJAX). The user doesn’t need to reload the page to progress through the application’s functionality.
JavaScript works on all modern web browsers and comes with a large and active developer community. You can even use it for server-side programming. At Soliant, we use programming language as a core tool in the solutions we build for our clients. When we integrate JavaScript with FileMaker, we can seamlessly move data online in a safe and secure way. This data access then drives interactions with key stakeholders.
Carafe: JavaScript without Compromise
Carafe allows you to enhance your FileMaker application with JavaScript libraries and frameworks. Our team built the tool, so businesses can modernize their FileMaker applications using JavaScript connectors. Carafe is an open-source tool focused on connecting modern web technologies with FileMaker. It allows you to seamlessly integrate JavaScript libraries and frameworks into your solution. Carafe offers a clear-cut way to leverage the vast JavaScript ecosystem for your business application.
How to Modernize Your FileMaker App with Carafe
1. Assess Your FileMaker Application.
While we encourage you to go check out Carafe, this comes with a big caveat – don’t start implementing things right away. First, you need to assess your current application’s infrastructure and functionality. Find its weak points and outline your modernization goals.
This list will help you determine which JavaScript libraries and frameworks you need to incorporate using Carafe.
2. Select JavaScript Libraries and Frameworks.
We built Carafe to support a wide range of JavaScript libraries and frameworks. This ensures the FileMaker community gains flexibility for their applications. We encourage you to choose those that best fit the list of requirements you documented in step one. Popular choices include React, Vue.js, D3.js, and Chart.js.
3. Install Carafe and Configure Your Web Viewers.
Next, install the Carafe Add-On, which includes the necessary files and scripts to integrate JavaScript libraries. Then you can configure web viewers within your FileMaker application. Carafe’s user-friendly interface focuses on the simple development and management of custom web viewers.
4. Integrate JavaScript with FileMaker.
We understand that integrations often come with data security fears. Carafe separates the static JavaScript code from the data being passed and returned to FileMaker. This ensures your data remains safe during the integration process. This also makes connecting Carafe bundles with FileMaker processes easier than traditional methods.
5. Enhance Your User Interface.
You can also leverage Carafe to create visually appealing and interactive user interfaces. JavaScript frameworks like React or Vue.js enhance User Experience with dynamic components and custom UI elements. You can create responsive layouts, interactive charts, data visualizations, and more.
6. Extend FileMaker’s Functionality.
With Carafe, you can take FileMaker beyond the platform’s traditional capabilities. Consider leveraging D3.js or Chart.js, to create advanced data visualizations and interactive dashboards. Or, integrate APIs to fetch and update data from external sources. This enables real-time data integration and synchronization.
7. Leverage Modern Web Technologies.
Carafe also empowers platform users to benefit from the power of modern web technologies. Consider using CSS frameworks like Bootstrap or Tailwind CSS to create responsive and mobile-friendly layouts. Leverage JavaScript libraries for data manipulation, form validation, date/time handling, and more.
8. Test and Deploy.
All applications require thorough testing to ensure you end up with a stable and high-performing solution. Carafe’s testing framework allows you to test your JavaScript integration directly within FileMaker. Once you’ve cleared out any bugs, it’s time to deploy. Your strategy should prioritize smooth transitions and minimal disruption to your users.
9. Embrace Continuous Improvement.
Modernization is an ongoing process; no application is truly ever finished. Give any application a few years of stagnation, and it will be working on outdated technology. That’s just how quickly the digital landscape is evolving. With Carafe, you can easily update your integrations as new libraries and frameworks emerge. Leverage the latest trends and technologies to maintain a competitive advantage for your business.
Next Steps in Your FileMaker Modernization
Discover a world of possibilities for your business application with Carafe. Our JavaScript connectors help prioritize ongoing improvements for your FileMaker application. Easily enhance your user experience and unlock advanced functionality. No need to worry about complex web development. Carafe simplifies the process, making it accessible to everyone. Start working with Carafe today. 
Do you have a more ambitious web integration project in mind for your FileMaker application? We have a deep bench of certified platform experts and a full roster of experienced web developers. Our team can help you transform your solution with digital capabilities. Contact us to learn more about how we can help your business.
