FileMaker Pro is a cross-platform relational database application from FileMaker Inc., formerly Claris, a subsidiary of Apple Inc. It integrates a database engine with a GUI-based interface, allowing users to modify the database by dragging new elements into layouts, screens, or forms. Current versions are: FileMaker Pro 12, FileMaker Pro Advanced 12, FileMaker Server 12, FileMaker Server Advanced 12, and FileMaker Go 12 for iPhone and iPad.
FileMaker evolved from a DOS application, but was then developed primarily for the Apple Macintosh. Since 1992 it has been available for Microsoft Windows as well as Mac OS, and can be used in a heterogeneous environment. FileMaker server briefly ran on Linux, but Linux support was abandoned with FileMaker 7, and the server currently only runs on Windows or Apple servers. It is available in desktop, server, iOS and web-delivery configurations.
FileMaker began as a MS-DOS-based computer program named Nutshell. It was developed by Nashoba Systems of Concord, Massachusetts, around 1982 or 1983. Nutshell was distributed by Leading Edge, an electronics marketer that had recently started selling IBM PC-compatible computers.