Mastering FileMaker Pro 11 Relationships: A Beginner's Guide

When it comes to creating relationships in FileMaker Pro 11, understanding how they work is crucial for efficient data management. In this article, we will explore the basics of relationships and provide a step-by-step guide on how to set them up.

'Filemaker Pro 11 Relationships'

One of the fundamental principles of relationships in FileMaker Pro 11 is that they can only exist between two tables when their corresponding match fields have identical values. This means that if either or both of these fields are blank, FileMaker cannot determine a relationship between the records.

To illustrate this concept, let's consider an example. Suppose we have two tables: 'table 1' and 'table 2'. In 'table 2', we create four fields: 'Ref', 'Description', 'Barcode', and 'Brand Name'. We then link the 'Ref', 'Description', and 'Barcode' fields in 'table 1' to their corresponding fields in 'table 2'.

Next, we need to set up a lookup field in 'table 2' that will automatically copy data from 'table 1'. To do this, go to File > Manage > Database > Fields, select 'table 2', and then click twice on the 'Ref' field. In the Auto-Enter area, select 'Looked-up value' and specify the starting table as 'table 1'. Then, choose 'Lookup from related table' and select 'table 2'. Finally, copy the value from the 'Ref' field in 'table 1' and click OK.

However, when we enter a new record with the ref number '1234' in 'table 1', the data does not automatically appear in the corresponding 'Ref' field in 'table 2'. This can be frustrating for those new to FileMaker Pro 11, especially when trying to use relationships to copy data from one table to another.

To overcome this issue, we need to create two tables: 'table 1' and 'table 2', and then set up the relationships between them. In 'table 1', we create three fields: 'Ref', 'Description', and 'Barcode'. By following these steps, you can successfully establish a relationship between your tables and automate data transfer.

In conclusion, mastering FileMaker Pro 11 relationships requires understanding how they work and setting them up correctly. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can efficiently manage your data and streamline your workflow.

Filemaker pro 11 relationships