Interconnecting QGIS with Claris FileMaker Easily
Since the ODBC connection no longer works under macOS between FileMaker and QGIS, we have developed another solution.
What is QGIS ?
QGIS (Quantum GIS) is a free and open-source software that allows one to create, analyze, and share maps.
Used worldwide by researchers, urban planners or associations, it is meant for working with geographic data such as plans, satellite images or GPS surveys.
Accessible to all, QGIS stands out by its power, flexibility and a large community that continuously develops new features.
QGIS is often paired with FileMaker to extract geolocation data.
How to interconnect with FileMaker
1. Cross-platform QGIS extension
The solution we developed works on all platforms — Windows, Mac and Linux (even though we have not tested it on all). It is based on a QGIS extension that we developed.
2. Expose your FileMaker database online
Contrary to the ODBC solution which works with a local database, our solution requires that your database is online on a server. If needed, you can contact us to find out about our hosting solutions including HDS.
3. Enable the API on the FileMaker server
Once your FileMaker database is online, you must check that the API is enabled from the administration of your FileMaker server the direct link is http://127.0.0.1:16001/admin-console/app/connectors/fmdapi
4. Create a secure account on your FileMaker database
To secure access and limit the data accessible from QGIS, you need to create an account with extended privileges including “Access via FileMaker Data API (fmrest)” and grant access to the fields you need in QGIS (latitude and longitude) and to a layout where those data are displayed.
5. Install our QGIS extension
From QGIS, install our extension, after which you can connect to your database by entering the address of your server, the database name, the username and the password of the account you created.