Syncing Data 2011
General Info
This database was designed for a particular syncing solution involving a single desktop database and multiple copies of databases on remote devices (other computers or iOS devices). The terminology used in this file and documentation is one of a parent/child relationship. The master desktop file is the parent file (that is why it is titled PS_11_Parent). The master database is duplicated and copied to the other devices. Those copies are considered the child databases. At some point the child databases are copied back to the desktop computer holding the parent database. Scripts are run from the parent database to compare the information between the two, import when necessary, and ask for a manual resolution for conflicting data. The child databases are then archived or discarded, and a new child database set is created from a duplicate of the parent database.
The remote devices are only supposed to edit certain records. That is, one iOS device is used in one trench for data entry. I am not scripting for the ability of two remote devices editing the same record.
The sync routine in this database is done on the record level, not the field level.
The database also records every entry and edit into every field so a complete audit trail of the database can be viewed.
This file was created with FileMaker Pro 11 and might include script steps that are incompatible with older versions.
Development Info
There is more information on this technique in the Dev Manual under Syncing.