www.lesliefisher.com Filemaker 5.5 and Built-In Web Companion

Addendum A, Using FileMakers Built - In Web Publisher

Well, time to learn how to use some stinky software. FMP Includes a built in web publisher. I am afraid you are stuck with it if you are not ready for Lasso and you cannot find a copy of Claris Home Page on ebay.

Its important to know that the configuration and web setup of FMP stay exactly the same. You will just use these steps in place of Claris Home Page. Its also important to know that with the new version of Web Publisher, you can now have pop-ups check boxes, etc! YIPEE! This actually makes the Web Companion not as stinky.

Back to Web Companion Configuration Screen: You need to remember to click Enable Instant Web Publishing. Hey, if this big red circle does not help you out, you're on your own. Remember, you get here by Edit > Preferences > Application and clicking on the Web Companion Tab and then clicking on Configuration.

File Sharing: You probably remember this picture. This time however, you will select Set Up Views. This will allow you to set up the look and feel for your database web pages.

Picture 1: Web Style. This simply allows you to choose different web looks. If you want you can custom make a style.

Table View: Asks what fields you would like to use for an overview of your records in columnar form. A newer feature is the layout option. This is great because you can make a new layout which only includes the fields you want to have on the web. This used to be an all or no fields options.

Form View: The display style for a single record. Once again, here you can choose a particular layout as well.

Search View: Choose whichever layout you would like for people to search your pages.

Sort: Allows you to sort your records using a particular criteria.

Once you have configured everything, boot up your web browser and type in your IP address. If everything goes according to plan, you should see your database listed under FileMakers Instant Web Publishing. Go ahead and click on the database, whatever it name may be.

Well, here is your database, look at the pop-ups and check boxes! Thanks FileMaker! Your security, etc. should work just like it did when you were using Claris Home Page.