FileMaker command-line reference (filemaker)

filemaker is one of ADT's two core deliverables. It reads and modifies .fmp12 files through FileMaker's own engine and provides the native interface for schema, script, and layout authoring. The installer places it on your PATH for coding agents, developer scripts, and other automation.

Who uses filemaker

A coding agent will invoke filemaker for most interactive ADT work. The agent plugin includes the fm-cli skill, which teaches the agent how to select operations, construct input, and verify changes.

Developers can also invoke filemaker directly from shell scripts, build systems, and other automation. This chapter documents that public command-line interface, including credentials, structured input, dry runs, output, errors, and every supported operation.

How filemaker differs from adt

filemaker is a native executable installed on your PATH. It works directly with FileMaker files and exposes operations for tables, fields, relationships, scripts, layouts, and other FileMaker objects.

adt coordinates the broader agent workflow, including projects, connections, Web Viewer apps, generated clients, and deployment. It is an internal part of the coding agent plugin and is not intended for direct use. See the ADT command-line reference for an informational overview.

In this chapter