The majority of FileMaker solutions are strong.
However, not all of them are fun to use.

Similar to contemporary SaaS apps, users today demand clear interfaces, quick accessibility, attractive layouts, and little friction.
This implies that UI/UX is no longer a “nice to have” feature in FileMaker.
It is essential.

Here are essential modern principles every FileMaker developer should apply:

1) Less clicks = better experience

Reduce steps.
If the user needs 6 clicks to finish one task — they will hate using the app.
Your goal is: fewer touches, direct actions.

2) Think in components

Modern design is modular.
Build reusable UI blocks inside FileMaker (cards, dropdowns, status tags, buttons).
It gives consistency — and speeds development.

3) Visual hierarchy matters

Use typography, spacing, color accents to show priority.
Important = bold or accent
Secondary = lighter
Don’t let everything compete visually.

4) Design for focus

Remove everything not needed for the current task.
Clean workspaces reduce cognitive load — and increase productivity.

5) Make data readable

Use modern formatting:

• tags
• badges
• inline icons
• color indicators

Users should “understand” the screen in 0.5 seconds.

6) Mobile-first mindset

Many FileMaker solutions run on iPad or phone.
So layouts must be responsive, big tap targets, smart navigation.

Why this all matters

Because the future of FileMaker is not just about “build fast.”

It’s about “build delightful.”

Apps people enjoy using → drive adoption → improve process → increase business value.

FileMaker developers who master UX will always outperform those who only focus on scripting.