Virginie Taborowski
Content Specialist
Last updated on
2.10.24
Best Practice
Find the best FileMaker alternative and create your own database
6
min
Table of contents
When looking for an individual database, companies are often faced with the challenge of finding the right platform for their requirements. FileMaker was a well-known name in this area for a long time. However, given the ever-evolving technologies and the increasing variety of requirements, companies should consider a possible FileMaker alternative.
In this blog post, we'll show you why it's worth looking for an alternative to FileMaker and how more flexible solutions can help you achieve your goals more effectively.
What is FileMaker?
FileMaker Pro (now Claris FileMaker Pro) is a leading platform for developing custom apps. The no-code app builder enables companies to build powerful applications. With Claris FileMaker, users create applications to organize projects, sort data, or track inventory, for example.
The software can be used on both Windows and macOS. A drag-and-drop function and countless templates make the platform easy to use, even for non-technical users. But FileMaker also has its limits, which is why many companies are looking for an alternative.
What is FileMaker used for?
FileMaker is used by companies to manage data, automate processes, and build custom applications. From managing inventory and customer relationships to tracking projects and resources, FileMaker has many uses. With Claris FileMaker, organizations can:
- organize data,
- save data,
- search for data
- generate reports,
- create links,
- create forms
- Share apps with other users.
FileMaker challenges
Although FileMaker is considered a powerful platform for developing custom apps and databases, companies also face some challenges using this software. These challenges include:
Limited range of functions: FileMaker offers functional limitations in some cases, particularly when it comes to complex requirements or specific industry needs. For example, FileMaker doesn't offer CRM, accounting, or integrated task management, which is why companies are looking for an alternative. Companies use the platform to create silo solutions, but not a central database system.
scalability: Although FileMaker offers ways to scale, larger amounts of data and growing demands can lead to performance issues. Loading problems and performance issues are the result.
Platform dependency: Claris is an Apple company. As a result, FileMaker was primarily developed for Mac. While there is also a Windows version, the platform doesn't offer the same performance and user experience here.
By understanding these challenges, companies can make informed decisions and, if necessary, search for a suitable FileMaker alternative that better suits their needs.
Ninox as an alternative to FileMaker: The biggest differences
When looking for the right database solution, companies are often faced with the decision between different platforms. One of the most common comparisons is between FileMaker and Ninox. Not least because Ninox offers a FileMaker alternative for Mac, and even as mobile app for iPhone and iPad is available.
Both platforms offer a wide range of features and options for creating custom applications, but they also differ in a few key aspects.
In this section, we'll take a closer look at the biggest differences between FileMaker and Ninox. By understanding these differences, companies can make an informed decision as to which platform best meets their unique requirements.
scaling
FileMaker offers options for scaling, but in practice, this often reaches their limits and causes performance weaknesses. Ninox, on the other hand, is specifically designed to Dealing efficiently even with large amounts of data and ensuring a high level of scalability — that makes the software a perfect FileMaker replacement. Simply upload your data via CSV import and create a central location to digitally manage your data.
compatibility
While FileMaker was primarily developed for Mac and often has compatibility issues on other operating systems, Ninox is platform-independent and runs seamlessly on various operating systems such as macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android.
In addition to the browser and desktop version, Ninox also offers a mobile app as a FileMaker alternative. This allows you to access your data regardless of device and location.
Low-code platform
Both platforms, FileMaker and Ninox, are designed as low-code platforms that allow users to build applications without extensive programming knowledge.
However, as a FileMaker alternative, Ninox offers a more intuitive user interface and a greater variety of ready-made templates, which can speed up the development process. Use Ninox templates and create with just one click your own database.
The clean documentation supports both programmers and non-programmers in creating their own, individual systems.
Flexibility
Ninox stands out for its flexibility as it offers a wide range of customization options to meet a company's specific needs.
As an alternative to FileMaker, industry-specific companies in particular are finding a database system in Ninox that can be completely adapted to individual business processes.
For example, Ninox offers construction and manufacturing companies countless templates such as Construction journal, deficiencies, or Acceptance reports. Traditional industries in particular will find a suitable FileMaker alternative in Ninox to completely digitize their business processes.
Usability
Ninox places great emphasis on ease of use and offers a more intuitive user interface and comprehensive support in the form of tutorial videos, an active community, and efficient support. While FileMaker also provides an easy-to-use environment, the learning curve could be steeper for some users.
Integration options
Both platforms support the Integrate with other apps and services. FileMaker and Ninox as an alternative support connections through a REST API. Ninox is also continuously expanding its integration options through regular updates.
Offline function
Users looking for an offline feature in FileMaker are disappointed. As a FileMaker alternative, Ninox, on the other hand, offers robust offline functionality that allows users to access and work with their data even without an Internet connection.
This feature can be particularly important for mobile applications. Edit your data even without an Internet connection and benefit from automatic synchronization as soon as a network connection can be established.
Conclusion: Choose an easy-to-use FileMaker replacement
Although FileMaker provides a solid solution for creating custom apps, there are limitations and challenges that make finding a FileMaker alternative worthwhile.
Companies looking for a more flexible, scalable, and easy-to-use alternative will find all of these criteria in Ninox. With its low-code platform, extensive integration options, and strong community support, Ninox offers a powerful solution that is easy to adapt to the changing needs and needs of companies.
