Easy Mapping Using MapKit
When it comes to using mapping technologies within FileMaker, you've most likely heard about using Google Maps API within a web viewer. Maybe you even know about Bing Maps, Mapbox or even the popular OpenStreetMap.org. The biggest issue with all of these mapping APIs is you'll have to first understand the API in order to achieve your desired result, and then you'll have to jump through the hurdles of authentication as well. It's not as easy as a simple plug-n-play solution.
While authentication isn't really that big of a deal, it's not as simple as pointing to a layout object, then having a map instantly appear on screen where you can immediately start interacting with it and collection data. With the MBS plug-in, you can achieve near instant results because all of the hard work has been taken care of for you.
If you're using FileMaker on a Macintosh, or you're willing to invest in creating an iOS SDK app, then MapKit may very well be the instantly invaluable tool for your mapping solutions. In this video I cover how I'm using MapKit features of the MBS plug-in and how useful they can truly be. If you need to quickly add mapping to any solution which will be used on the Macintosh side of things, then the MBS plug-in and MapKit is an absolute no brainer.
Comments
issues
are there issues with older version of FMP. Absolutely nothing can be above the MapView for me. In the example file crosshairs would not work and eventually even the spins popup started opening below the map. and points did not work at all.
Haven't worked with older versions
The version I showed was using version 20 I believe. I have also had success with version 19. If there is a version prior to that, then I've not tested or worked with it. You'll have to test with different versions.
The MBS plugin is hooking into the OS and drawing directly to the window. From what I can tell, it's respecting FileMaker's object order in terms of what it draws to the window. So, anything in a higher order on the layout should appear above where MBS renders the MapKit.
-- Matt Petrowsky - ISO FileMaker Magazine Editor
Circula pin
Hi!
thank you for this post. Is it posible to make a circular pin with a particular radius, instead of the default pin?