Claris FileMaker

Claris FileMaker is a low-code development platform for building custom business applications. Organizations can create relational databases, interfaces, scripts, reports and workflows without developing every component from scratch.

FileMaker supports custom CRM applications alongside solutions for inventory, projects, memberships, field operations and case management. Applications can run through FileMaker Pro on desktop, FileMaker Go on Apple mobile devices, or WebDirect in a browser.

The platform supports cloud hosting through FileMaker Cloud and self-hosting through FileMaker Server. Its current feature set also includes AI script steps, natural-language search patterns, retrieval-augmented generation workflows and support for public or local large language models.

FileMaker provides visual layout tools, relational data modeling, calculation fields, custom functions, scripting and reusable add-ons. These components let teams adapt applications to specific operating processes.

CRM builders can create contact records, account hierarchies, activities, opportunities, forms, dashboards and workflow rules. The platform can also connect those records with external services and data sources.

Deployment options include FileMaker Pro, FileMaker Go, FileMaker WebDirect, FileMaker Server and FileMaker Cloud. Security features include account-based access, encryption options, privilege sets and administrative controls.

AI capabilities include native AI script steps, AI calculation functions, document and PDF processing, semantic search patterns, field annotations and connections to models such as OpenAI, Anthropic, Cohere and Google Gemini. Local large language models are also supported.

Claris sells FileMaker through cloud subscriptions and self-hosted licensing. Official cloud pricing lists an Essentials plan at US$22 per user per month for five to ten users, and a Standard plan at US$45 per user per month for five to 99 users. Annual billing applies to the displayed prices.

The self-hosted Claris Platform bundle lists pricing from US$20.62 per user per month for five to nine users. Larger user tiers reduce the displayed per-user price, while 100 or more users require a sales quotation.

Claris offers a 45-day FileMaker trial through its official downloads page. Pricing, plan names and included limits can change, so buyers should confirm terms before purchase.

Pros: FileMaker supports highly customized applications, multiple deployment models, mobile and browser access, visual development, scripting, relational data and several integration interfaces. It can also add AI features to existing custom apps.

Cons: FileMaker is a platform for building solutions rather than a ready-made CRM. Organizations may need an experienced developer for complex implementations, governance and maintenance. Subscription tiers and hosting limits also require careful licensing review.

Comparable low-code and custom application platforms include Airtable, Zoho Creator, Quickbase and Microsoft Power Apps. Salesforce Platform is another option for organizations seeking a broader enterprise application ecosystem.

For teams wanting a ready-made CRM rather than a custom database platform, HubSpot CRM and Salesforce Sales Cloud are more directly packaged around sales operations. They generally provide less freedom over the underlying application model than FileMaker.

Is Claris FileMaker a CRM? FileMaker can power a CRM, but it is not limited to CRM use. Teams build their own customer, sales, service and reporting workflows.

Does FileMaker offer a free trial? Yes. Claris advertises a 45-day trial for FileMaker.

Can FileMaker run in a browser? Yes. FileMaker WebDirect lets users access supported solutions through a web browser.

Does FileMaker have an API? Yes. FileMaker supports the FileMaker Data API, OData, ODBC and JDBC interfaces.

Can FileMaker connect to other systems? Yes. Integrations can use REST APIs, OData, JavaScript, ODBC, JDBC, web services, Claris Connect and the FileMaker connector.

Does FileMaker support AI? Yes. Current releases include AI script steps, AI calculation functions, semantic search capabilities and integrations with external or local language models.

Does FileMaker work on Android? Claris documents FileMaker Go for Apple mobile devices. Android support was not verified in the reviewed official product materials.