Migrating to Claris FileMaker 21.1 is a strategic step to take advantage of the enhanced features and improved performance of the platform. To ensure a smooth and effective transition, it’s essential to follow a structured plan. Here are the key steps to plan this migration:
Need assessment and compatibility
Before migrating to Claris FileMaker 21.1, it’s crucial to assess your current needs and verify the compatibility of your systems. Start by inventorying the applications, files, scripts, and integrations you are using, identifying those critical to your operations. Also, ensure that your hardware, operating systems, and software dependencies, such as plugins, are compatible with the new version. This step helps detect potential technical obstacles and plan the necessary adjustments to ensure a smooth, interruption-free transition.
Technical preparation
Technical preparation is a key step to ensure a successful migration to Claris FileMaker 21.1. It involves checking that your existing infrastructure is compatible with the new version. This includes updating servers, databases, and devices used to run FileMaker.
Ensure that all backups of current data are made and secured before beginning the migration. Test the compatibility of scripts, plugins, and APIs to identify and resolve any issues before deployment. Lastly, prepare a testing environment to validate the functionality of your FileMaker solutions in the new version before deploying them in production.
Application upgrade
Upgrading applications is a crucial step to maximize the benefits offered by Claris FileMaker 21.1. This involves reviewing and adapting your existing solutions to leverage new features and performance improvements. Identify elements that require updates, such as scripts, user interfaces, and workflows. Test and optimize applications to ensure compatibility with version 21.1, using tools such as application widgets or live text recognition. This phase ensures not only continuity of operations but also a better user experience with the modern features of FileMaker.
User training
User training is essential to ensure a smooth transition to Claris FileMaker 21.1 and maximize the adoption of new features. It is important to offer sessions tailored to different skill levels, covering key improvements such as application widgets, the QR code reader, and live text recognition. Users should be guided on how to use new interfaces and optimize workflows to improve efficiency.
Additionally, educational materials such as guides and tutorials can help reinforce their autonomy and confidence in using the software. Well-planned training helps reduce disruptions and accelerates return on investment.
Progressive deployment
The progressive deployment of Claris FileMaker 21.1 allows the introduction of new features gradually, reducing the risk of disruption for users. This process involves deploying the update on a small portion of the business or a limited group of users before expanding it to the entire organization. This model allows for performance testing and resolution of any issues encountered before implementing the solution on a larger scale. A progressive deployment also provides the opportunity to adjust training and support based on user feedback, ensuring a smooth transition and quicker adoption of the new version.
Exploiting new features
Leveraging the new features of Claris FileMaker 21.1 allows businesses to take advantage of mobile enhancements and productivity tools, such as application widgets and live text recognition. To maximize their impact, it’s essential to integrate these features into existing processes, ensure user adoption, and train teams on their use.
This helps simplify data management, enhance real-time decision-making, and optimize the user experience. Thoughtful implementation and regular performance analysis will ensure that the new features contribute to the continuous improvement of business processes.
Conclusion
Carefully planning the migration to Claris FileMaker 21.1 not only ensures a smooth transition but also maximizes the benefits of this update. With proper preparation, businesses can quickly leverage the new features to enhance their efficiency and competitiveness.
If you have any questions about this update, or if you’re curious about integrating the new Claris FileMaker 21.1 features, contact us today.