Database Reference
In-Depth Information
Getting Help from the Community
Even outside the members-only programs, the FileMaker developer community is a congeni-
al bunch. You'll find lots of resources on the Internet, including free newsgroups and web-
sites. Many independent consultants' sites have free or low-cost resources, too, like lists of
custom functions free for the taking or sample files that show specific techniques.
Local User Groups
The most hands-on way to stay abreast of what's new with FileMaker is to join a local user
group. There you'll meet other power users and developers. Meetings usually consist of a
presentation and a Q&A session. Presenters can be FileMaker staff or out-of-town deve-
lopers. Some groups also sponsor daylong programming camps. Check out
www.fmpug.com/chapters.php
to get the current list of local groups.
Mail Lists and Newsgroups
A compendium of email lists is available at
www.filemaker.com/support/mailinglists.html
,
but new sites are cropping up all the time, and URLs change even on established sites. So
use the link above, or check your favorite search engine, to get the latest links for these
groups. To get your feet wet, try general lists, like FMAnnounce, FMPExperts, and the one
run by Dartmouth University. Fmpug.com is a membership-based online user group with for-
ums, reviews, and resources, including podcast interviews with subject-matter experts. For
more specialized topics, have a look at FileMaker XML Talk and Troi FileMaker Plug-in
Talk.
Training/Consultants
FileMaker's website lists trainers and consultants who are members of the FBA. And the
FileMaker Resource Guide also lists the FBA group, plus it takes paid advertisements. Your
favorite search engine will yield hundreds of results. FileMaker has a certification program,
so look for the FileMaker Certified Developer logo or ask the consultant if she's been certi-
fied as part of your selection process.
