FileMaker Pro 9: The Missing Manual

Getting Help from the Community

Even outside the members-only programs, the FileMaker developer community is a congenial 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 demonstrate specific techniques.

Mail Lists and Newsgroups

A listing of email lists is available atwww.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 the one run by Dartmouth University or FileMaker Today. Fmpug.com is a membership-based, online user group with forums, reviews, and resources, including podcast interviews with subject-matter experts. For more specialized topics, have a look at FileMaker XML Talk, FileMaker Pro CGI Talk, and Troi FileMaker Plug-in Talk.

Training/Consultants

FileMaker’s Web site 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 they’ve been certified as part of your selection process.

DevCon

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