FMSchemaIQ
Guide

What is FileMaker DDR?

Understanding the Database Design Report in FileMaker

A FileMaker DDR (Database Design Report) is a comprehensive export of your FileMaker solution's structure. It provides a detailed breakdown of how your database is built and how its components are connected, from scripts and tables to relationships and layouts.

What Does a FileMaker DDR Contain?

A DDR captures the full structure of your FileMaker system, including:

  • Scripts and script steps
  • Tables and fields
  • Relationships between tables
  • Layouts and UI elements
  • Value lists
  • Security and access settings

It is essentially a complete snapshot of your database design.

Why is FileMaker DDR Important?

The DDR is one of the most valuable tools for understanding a FileMaker system. It helps you:

  • Analyze how your system is structured
  • Understand script logic and dependencies
  • Identify complexity and potential issues
  • Support system audits and documentation

For developers and teams working on existing systems, DDR is often the starting point.

Why is DDR Hard to Work With?

While DDR contains all the information you need, it is not easy to use directly. Common challenges include:

  • Extremely large and complex files
  • Difficult navigation through raw XML or HTML output
  • Lack of visual representation
  • Hard to trace relationships and dependencies

As systems grow, these challenges become more significant.

How is a FileMaker DDR Generated?

You can generate a Database Design Report (DDR) from FileMaker Pro Advanced:

  1. 1

    Open your FileMaker solution

    Make sure you are logged in with a Full Access account for complete and accurate results.

  2. 2

    Go to Tools → Database Design Report

  3. 3

    Select the components you want to include

    Recommended: Select all components for full analysis.

  4. 4

    Choose XML format and generate the report

    XML is required for analysis tools like FMSchemaIQ.

The output should be generated in XML format. HTML output is optional for viewing but not suitable for analysis.

For best results, generate the DDR using a Full Access account with all components selected. Limited access may result in incomplete or inaccurate analysis.

Need help generating your DDR? We're happy to assist you at no cost. Just reach out and we'll guide you through the process.

How to Analyze a FileMaker DDR

Analyzing a DDR manually usually involves:

  • Searching through scripts
  • Reviewing table relationships
  • Identifying dependencies between components
  • Interpreting large amounts of structured data

This process can be time-consuming and requires experience.

Tools for FileMaker DDR Analysis

To simplify the process, many developers use DDR analysis tools. These tools help:

  • Organize DDR data
  • Provide structured views
  • Improve navigation
  • Support deeper analysis

Modern tools go further by offering visualization and insights.

A More Practical Approach to DDR Analysis

Instead of manually reviewing raw DDR data, tools like FMSchemaIQ help transform it into a more usable format. With the right approach, you can:

  • Understand your system faster
  • Identify issues more easily
  • Visualize script flows and dependencies
  • Make better development decisions

Who Should Use DDR Analysis?

FileMaker Developers

To understand existing systems and work more efficiently.

Consultants

To evaluate client systems and identify improvements.

Business Owners

To gain visibility into how their system works.

Why DDR Analysis Matters

Without proper analysis

  • Systems become harder to maintain
  • Changes introduce unexpected issues
  • Dependencies are overlooked

With proper analysis

  • You gain clarity
  • You reduce risk
  • You improve system quality
  • You make informed decisions

Start Understanding Your FileMaker System

If you regularly work with FileMaker systems, DDR analysis is essential. Turn complex system data into clear insights and make better decisions.

Analyze Your DDRLearn About DDR Analysis