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Get started with Claris FileMaker quickly, even if you are brand new to it. This easy, beginner-focused training breaks everything down into clear, manageable steps using practical, real-life examples. You will understand how FileMaker functions, learn effective ways to structure and manage data, and gain the skills to create custom apps you can actually use. No prior experience required, and no confusing terminology along the way.
This training introduces Claris FileMaker using a structured, systems-oriented approach that reflects how experienced engineers learn and build software. Rather than jumping directly into surface-level features, the course begins by explaining how FileMaker functions at a foundational level, including how data is stored, accessed, and displayed. Concepts are introduced in a logical sequence so new users understand the “why” behind each step, not just the “how.”
The goal is to help beginners develop correct mental models early. By understanding how tables, fields, layouts, and relationships interact, learners avoid common design mistakes and build solutions that behave predictably as they grow.
This course is designed specifically for people who are brand new to FileMaker. You do not need technical skills, programming knowledge, or database experience. Every topic is explained from the ground up, making it easy to follow even if this is your first time using FileMaker.
Each lesson builds on the previous one, following established database and application design principles. You are guided through FileMaker’s architecture in manageable stages, allowing time to absorb each concept before moving forward. This mirrors how professional developers approach new platforms.
Practical examples are used to demonstrate correct workflows and design patterns. Instead of abstract demonstrations, you see how real applications are structured, making it easier to transfer knowledge to your own projects.
A strong emphasis is placed on data structure, because reliable applications start with well-designed data models. You learn how to define tables and fields properly, choose appropriate data types, and design relationships that maintain data integrity.
These topics are explained without unnecessary complexity, using plain language and visual examples. Even users with no prior database experience gain a clear understanding of how structured data supports accuracy, performance, and scalability.
Rather than treating layouts as isolated screens, the training explains how they relate to underlying data and relationships. You learn how FileMaker determines context, how related data is accessed, and why layout structure affects behavior.
This knowledge helps beginners troubleshoot issues more effectively and design layouts that behave consistently. Understanding context early reduces confusion as applications become more complex.
As you begin building custom apps, the focus is on stability and maintainability rather than shortcuts. You learn how to assemble components in a way that supports future changes and avoids rework.
The training emphasizes clean structure, clear naming, and thoughtful organization. These habits make applications easier to maintain and extend, even as requirements evolve.
While the training introduces technical concepts, it does so carefully and intentionally. Terminology is introduced only when it adds value, and each concept is explained in context so it feels approachable rather than intimidating.
This balance allows beginners to gain real technical understanding without feeling overwhelmed. You learn enough to make informed design decisions while building confidence step by step.
By the end of the training, beginners are not just following instructions. They understand how FileMaker works as a system and how individual components interact. This foundation prepares learners to continue developing skills independently.
With a clear understanding of core concepts and best practices, users are well positioned to explore more advanced features, automate workflows, and build increasingly sophisticated solutions with confidence.
This annual subscription is the complete package for building Claris FileMaker applications. With this subscription, you will receive a FULL copy of Claris FileMaker Pro, over 70 hours of video training, PLUS exclusive Video Content! That's over a $700 value, all for the introductory price of $399! (annual renewal is $50 off)
This Subscription includes:
One Copy of Claris FileMaker Pro 2025 (including any updates released while subscription is current)
70 hour Claris FileMaker Platform Video Course
22 hour Claris FileMaker Deploy Video Course (Cloud and Server)
9 hour Claris FileMaker Mobile Video Course (Go and Webdirect)
"60 Day" Beginner Training Video Course (Livestream Style)
2-3 hour Claris FileMaker UI Design Video Course (Bundle Exclusive, not available elsewhere)
6 hour Claris FileMaker for Startups and Entrepreneurs Video Course
1 Hour of One-on-One Coaching (Limit One Per Customer, New Customers Only)
PDF of FileMaker Manual for Novices current release
Access to ALL of our past LiveStream Broadcasts
Access to our Legacy Video Courses
Calendar Add-On Kit
Take advantage of a complimentary one-hour consultation designed to clarify your goals and determine the best path forward. This session helps ensure you make informed decisions before investing time or budget into development.
Richard Carlton Consulting provides new clients with a free one-hour session led by a senior engineer. This meeting is focused on preparation and evaluation, not active development. The objective is to understand your needs, assess feasibility, and outline a clear initial direction that you can confidently review and consider.
Depending on the complexity of your project, the next step may be a high-level roadmap or a more detailed implementation plan. If your project requires deeper analysis before accurate pricing can be determined, we recommend a structured discovery phase. This process results in a refined proposal with sufficient detail to support realistic scope, timelines, and cost estimates.
During the consultation, our senior engineer typically performs a high-level review of your database servers and existing databases. This review often uncovers critical issues that may not be immediately visible. In many cases, we identify gaps or risks caused by previous consultants or internal IT teams who lacked specialized database expertise or did not follow established best practices.
Our senior engineers are available for both short-term and long-term engagements. When requested, proposals can be structured as fixed-price projects or billed on a time-and-materials basis, giving you flexibility based on your project goals and budget preferences.
To schedule your free one-hour consultation, call (707) 422-4053 between 9 AM and 5 PM Pacific Time, or email support@rcconsulting.com to get started.
This consultation is your opportunity to gain expert insight, reduce risk, and move forward with confidence.
At Richard Carlton Consulting, we design custom FileMaker database solutions with one clear goal: helping your business operate faster, smarter, and more efficiently. Every system we build is shaped through close collaboration with our clients and informed by more than three decades of hands-on experience.
Rather than offering one-size-fits-all software, we focus on solutions that align with how your team actually works. The result is streamlined processes, reduced manual effort, and tools that grow with your business.
Tell us about your challenges, and we’ll show you how the right database solution can turn everyday tasks into competitive advantages.
Claris FileMaker Coaching offers a hands-on alternative to traditional development. Instead of handing off the work, you collaborate directly with an RCC engineer in real time. By sharing screens over the internet, you and your coach work side by side on your application, making progress together.
This approach is ideal for teams that want to learn while building, solve problems faster, and stay closely involved in every decision. Coaching sessions are prepaid in convenient five-hour blocks, giving you focused, efficient time with an experienced professional who helps move your project forward with clarity and confidence.
When your contract includes five or more users, RCC offers a volume learning bundle designed to accelerate adoption and long-term success. This package includes full access to our complete video training library, covering the latest version of FileMaker and practical, real-world use cases.
We understand that every organization has different goals and technical requirements, so we provide flexible options tailored to your specific FileMaker environment. From initial setup to ongoing optimization, RCC guides you through each phase with clear direction and proven expertise.
Think of RCC as your single, reliable partner for everything FileMaker. From training and configuration to strategy and support, we’re with you at every step.
RCC invites new customers to take advantage of a free one-hour consultation with an experienced RCC engineer. This session is designed to uncover your specific needs, challenges, and goals, allowing us to outline a clear direction forward.
By the end of the consultation, you’ll receive a preliminary proposal to review, giving you insight into possible solutions and next steps, all before making any commitment.
"We needed to bring in the experts. RCC constructed a detailed database solution that became the tool needed by RCSD."
FileMaker Consulting
https://rcconsulting.com/
"Richard's team of engineers are awesome! We trust them with our most valuable data and database here at Caltrans."
FileMaker Consulting
https://rcconsulting.com/
"Your engineer has been extremely patient with us, is very responsive, efficient, and so personable!"
FileMaker Consulting
https://rcconsulting.com/
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