The first thing that struck me about the new version of FileMaker Pro and FileMaker Pro Advanced released Monday is that the file format hasn't changed. In its first dozen years, FileMaker got a new file format every other version. But this new release uses the same format (.fp7) that FileMaker has had for nearly five years now, since the release of FileMaker Pro 7.

Why does this matter? The upgrade from FileMaker Pro 6 to FileMaker Pro 7 was perhaps the most significant upgrade in the program's history, but that great step forward twisted more than a few ankles at the time, and those of us who lived through it aren't eager to do that again just yet.

So I'm pleased that this upgrade offers lots of gain and almost no pain. In fact, at first glance, FileMaker Pro 10 offers so many real benefits to developers and end-users alike that, if you're already using FileMaker, you're going to find it hard to resist the urge to upgrade. And what if you're new to FileMaker Pro? Then you're looking into the database application at a great time.

Here's what to expect from this FileMaker update, based on an initial look at version 10. Read William's whole review at macworld.com

 

Most dramatic interface improvements in over a decade put commonly used features at users' fingertips

SAN FRANCISCO and LAS VEGAS (Macworld Expo and CES) - January 5, 2009 - FileMaker, Inc. today announced it is shipping the new FileMaker Pro 10, a breakthrough version of the award-winning database software, which features a sleek new interface and intuitive new design.

With a fresh new interface, FileMaker Pro 10 delivers the most dramatic design changes in over a decade. The redesigned and customizable Status Toolbar - similar to browser toolbars - puts commonly used FileMaker Pro features, previously only accessible from the main menu, right at users' fingertips for streamlined navigation, better workflow and time-saving shortcuts.

Other major new features, such as the ability to save the results of a search, and Script Triggers, which launch scripts triggered by user actions or based on time limits, make using databases easier than ever before.

Also shipping today is the entire FileMaker Pro 10 product line, which includes FileMaker Pro 10 Advanced, FileMaker Server 10 and FileMaker Server 10 Advanced.

A database for everyone

"The new FileMaker Pro 10 interface is the result of years of in-depth research into how people actually interact with databases," said FileMaker president Dominique Goupil. "The result is a major new version of FileMaker Pro that brings the power of databases to everyone whether they create their own databases, or use one from someone else. Also, the new customization and scripting features in version 10 will save both end users and developers time and money."