We recently released an updated version of our free FileMaker logging add-on, available in the Claris Marketplace, and some of you had questions about updating your existing add-on. You wondered if you needed to completely remove the first version before installing the second. And you wondered how you would protect your data during that process. So we put together this outline to assist.

You will want to uninstall the first version, but there are a couple of steps to complete first to make sure your data and scripts are preserved. 

Adding v2 of an Add-On to a Solution That Already Has v1 Installed

1. Create a backup of your solution in case of errors
2. Go to Add-On layout
3. Depending on file size and table count of add-on, export all v1 add-on records as a merge file to retain field names, or you can use the backup for importing in step 10.
4. If customizations have been made to the v1 scripts, rename the v1 scripts folder so it doesn’t get deleted in the next step
5. Uninstall v1 Add-on (enable “delete all tables, fields, and record data”)
6. Delete v1 Add-On folder from “AddonModules” folder
   1. mac: ~/Library/Application\ Support/FileMaker/Extensions/AddonModules/Add-On/
   2. win: ~\AppData\Local\FileMaker\Extensions\AddonModules\Add-On\
7. Add the new v2 Add-On folder in same directory
8. Restart FileMaker
9. Add the v2 Add-On to your solution
10. Import the v1 records from step 2
11. If customizations have been made to the v1 scripts, copy them into the v2 scripts
12. Update all the “perform script” steps calling the v1 scripts to use the v2 scripts, including the new script parameters

Our Simple and Powerful Logging Module is Available in the Claris Marketplace

If you’re just learning about this logging add-on, you can download it from the Claris Marketplace and incorporate simple logging functionality into any FileMaker solution. The add-on includes a beautiful log in list view, detail view, auto clean-up/delete every given number of days, and a filtering functionality. The logging script can be added to any solution to track activities, session times, and much more.

Our add-on now features a clear call to action when viewing logs, along with efficient filtering for quick retrieval of specific records. The headers are more informative, displaying details such as the creator, script, and creation time of each log. Enjoy a sleek and contemporary visual experience with our modern design. Logs from multiple sessions are logically chained for easy navigation.

Additionally, a new intuitive settings popover provides quick access to various options like logging instructions, record cleanup, data export, test record creation, and time offset settings.

FileMaker DevCast Episode 15: Effective Error Logging

We talk more about error logging in a recent episode of the FileMaker DevCast. Listen along to hear about some best practices, common pitfalls, and advanced techniques for effectively capturing and managing errors within your FileMaker applications. 

Let Us Know How You’re Using the Logging Add-On

Let us know how updating your installation goes and if any further questions come up. We’d also love to hear how you’re using the logging add-on so leave us a comment below.

Are you needing to incorporate add-ons into your FileMaker solution? We’re ready to help with that also.