ISO FileMaker Magazine

The world of the web is rapidly becoming the world of the web & cloud. Where much of what we consume, such as data, resources and media is not stored, manipulated or managed on the devices we use. The laptop you used a while ago, with the stored sales data, will soon be replaced by the tablet with 4g or super wi-fi access to immediate data results.

The concept of web services isn't new, it's been around for more than a decade now and it's only now that the reality is actually happening. One of the central issues behind this finally happening is not just technology, but a willingness to trust.

The "convenience factor" is winning out over any lack of trust - look at how much stuff people upload to Facebook! Of course, it's convenience, and a bit of ignorance by the less technically inclined. So what does all this talk about trust, ignorance and convenience have to do with FileMaker. Well, it's all about web services.

Two of those funny-sounding protocols for web services have been available in a very convenient plug-in for FileMaker. Creating a Mashup (a combination of a variety of technologies or technological services) is certainly doable within a FileMaker solution. All you need to know is a little bit of how things work and you're off to the races.

This video will give you the basics of using web services, and if you're left wondering what you might use web services for then how about these suggestions.

Package delivery confirmations from FedEx or UPS
Uploading designated pictures to Flickr
Pulling down invoices from PayPal
Pulling real-time stock quotes (an oldie but a goodie)
Generating barcodes which FileMaker can't do without an additional plug-in
Integration with AdSense and AdWords accounts
Integrating with eBay or Amazon marketplaces for selling things
Weather based operations
or Simply getting a listing of movies

Plus many more possibilities!