Category Archives: Software Development

Read about successful custom software development with assistance from certified FileMaker developers resulting in a lean, safe & hassle free depolyment.

Software Development

FileMaker® Pro Files Testing and Repair

What is FileMaker Corruption

File corruption is not inevitable, but it’s a good idea ensure that databases are properly backed-up in case of disaster. While FileMaker takes every precaution possible to prevent data loss – there are those rare occasions when your FileMaker Pro file can become corrupted and data loss may occur. If your database exhibits the following signs, chances are, your file could be corrupted:

  • Multiple users report beachballs or hanging that require force quitting of FileMaker.
  • Repeatable FileMaker file crashes.
  • Repeatable FileMaker application or server crashes.
  • Records that can’t be deleted.
  • Ghost records.
  • Layouts that cause FileMaker to crash.

What causes FileMaker Corruption

There are many problems can FileMaker corruption. Corruption can be caused by both human, network and system issues, including:

  • Catastrophic hardware failure
  • Losing power unexpectedly to your server machine
  • Clients disconnecting without proper termination of their activities
  • Writing / Accessing a bad spot on the hard drive
  • Software or hardware conflicts
  • Network latency

What to do if you suspect your files are corrupted

If you suspect “some” corruption in your file(s), the best course of action is:

  1. Open your current FileMaker Pro file.
  2. Export the data to a neutral file format (like a Merge file)
  3. Import the data from the neutral file format into a copy of your latest master clone
  4. Use the copy of your latest master clone

If you receive an error message about your file being corrupted when you attempt to open it:

  1. Use the recover command in FileMaker Pro and FileMaker Pro Advanced to attempt to recover your file.
  2. If the recovered version of your file opens, use it to export your data to a neutral file format (like a Merge file.)
  3. Import the data from the neutral file format into a copy of your latest master clone
  4. Use the copy of your latest master clone

If the file corruption is more severe and you cannot gain access to your current file:

  1. Export your data from your most recent backup to a neutral file format (like a Merge file)
  2. Import the data from the neutral file format into a copy of your latest master clone
  3. Use the copy of your latest master clone

If you do not have a master clone of your file:

  1. Create a clone of your current file or your most recent backup
  2. Import your data into this clone

Get professional help

If all else fails, you can send over your possibly corrupt files over to us.  We can inspect and test them provided that it meet the following conditions:

  • The File should NOT be recovered, cloned, or saved as a copy, after the discovery. Only the unmodified damaged file is of any use (unless instructed by us otherwise).
  • If you are able to create a Clone of the damaged file(s) that shows the exact same symptoms, you can use this Clone instead.
  • A description of the malfunction of the file is included.
  • Login/password or dependent files are only required, to perform specific tests.
  • Files MUST be zipped before submission. Zipped sizes up to 50 MB may be emailed. If you need assistance submitting the file(s) please contact us.
  • All data contained will be kept confidential.

Please note that we do not check for programming faults or wrong field (or other elements) definitions.

You may send your problematic .fp7 or .fmp12 file in .zip format to support@neocode.com, or provide a download URL. If your files are too big to be sent by email, please send it through Dropbox.com or WeTransfer.com account which is free for up to 2 GB.

After an exploratory test of the file we will report back what we have found and a scope of work and estimate. Usually these are the two possible results:

  • The file can likely be repaired, what is damaged, how much time it will take and what it will cost.
  • The file is damaged beyond repair

In case you agree to the scope of work and estimate, we will send you an invoice for the deposit to get started.

Statement from FileMaker:

The Recover command DOES NOT repair files and a recovered file SHOULD NOT be used in a production environment.

Please make sure you have reviewed “File management best practices”
http://help.filemaker.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/11927/~/file-management-best-practices

Notes:

What to do when your file is corrupt
http://help.filemaker.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/5421/~/what-to-do-when-your-file-is-corrupt

Removing corrupt records from a file
http://help.filemaker.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/4666/~/removing-corrupt-records-from-a-file

Corrupt / Damaged Files: How to avoid the need for recovery
http://help.filemaker.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/4426/~/corrupt-%2F-damaged-files%3A-how-to-avoid-the-need-for-recovery

Software Development

Tips In Hiring The Right Software Development Company

The advancements in the field of technology have become instrumental in the success of different entrepreneurs all over the world. This is why you need to join the bandwagon of companies that are starting to embrace the power of technology. Whether you like it or not, it is essential for you to step up your game and be ahead of your competitors through the use of technology.

One of the best decisions that you need to make is to hire the right custom software developer for your company. In this article, we are going to provide you with some tips on how you can make this happen.

Know What You Want

Before getting in touch with a professional software development firm, you have to assess the needs of your own company first. This is where you will list down the day-to-day operations or transactions of the business. Identify the aspects that may require some improvements. Create a list of your needs so that it would become easy to hire the professionals who will be responsible for developing custom software. Knowing what you want is a good head start for your upcoming project with the said experts.

custom software development

Do Your Own Research

Take note that many companies are now engaged in providing application and software development services. Because of this, it can be challenging to find the ideal one for your business. As such, it is highly recommended to research first the top developers in your local community. Keep in mind that doing this is part of the due diligence process that you need to go through. You cannot just randomly hire a firm without knowing the credentials of their team members. At the same time, you can also check their company profiles.

custom software development

Ask For Referrals

Establishing strong and close ties with other businessmen is essential for your survival in the industry. For this reason, you are encouraged to network with other business owners who can provide you with some guidance or assistance. Once you have already achieved this, it will be easier on your part to seek referrals or recommendations from them. Feel free to inquire from these individuals if they can give you the name of the firm responsible for their custom software. Do not be ashamed to ask around.

Set Expectations Right

Never make the mistake of signing a contract with the custom software development company without discussing your expectations. Be sure to inform the professional developers about your needs ahead of time. Aside from this, you must also ask questions or clarifications. At this point, it is significant to emphasize the fact that it is necessary to create clear communication lines with your chosen business software or application developer. Make it a habit to be clear in providing instructions. Most importantly, never hesitate in discussing the timeline for the project. Set a reasonable deadline.

Be smart enough to hire the right company to help you with your custom software needs. Call us today.