The Acquisition of Nashoba Systems by Claris and the Evolution of FileMaker
The story of FileMaker’s success and the internal frictions within Nashoba Systems caught the attention of Claris, leading to a significant chapter in the software development narrative. Here’s a detailed look into this fascinating transition.
Claris Steps In
Amid the success of FileMaker and internal tensions at Nashoba Systems, Claris, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Apple Computer, approached Nashoba with a proposition to acquire the company. By this time, there was enough support among Nashoba’s founders to vote in favor of the sale. Interestingly, Claris also seemed to have reservations about dealing with Nashoba’s then-president.
On July 11, 1988, the acquisition was finalized, making Claris Inc. the owner of the rights to FileMaker. This pivotal moment marked a new beginning for FileMaker’s future, as Claris embarked on further developing and marketing the product.
The Claris Era
Under the aegis of Claris, FileMaker entered a new phase of development. Claris introduced conventional version numbers, starting with Version 1.0, marking the first iteration under Claris. In line with Apple’s ambition to establish Claris as an independent software brand, Apple pushed for PC versions (DOS and Windows versions) of all its products. This led to the first Windows version of FileMaker under Claris, significantly expanding the product’s user base.
The Dissolution of Claris and Formation of FileMaker, Inc.
Later, Apple decided to dissolve Claris and establish FileMaker, Inc. as a standalone company with just two products: FileMaker and HomePage. This decision highlighted FileMaker’s importance to Apple and the company’s commitment to advancing FileMaker as a leading database solution.
The journey of FileMaker, from its humble beginnings at Nashoba Systems, through the acquisition by Claris, to the establishment of FileMaker, Inc., reflects the dynamic nature of the software industry and the strategic decisions that paved the way for FileMaker’s success.
The Other Claris Products
As FileMaker continued to thrive under its new corporate structure, other products that once bore the Claris name either returned to the Apple brand (e.g., ClarisWorks became AppleWorks) or were discontinued (such as MacWrite, MacDraw, etc.). FileMaker, Inc. later discontinued support for HomePage, choosing to focus exclusively on developing and marketing FileMaker. For those interested in trivia, the toll-free telephone numbers from Claris were retained after the transition to FileMaker, Inc. (800-325-2747 or 800-725-2747, spelling out 800-3-CLARIS or 800-7-CLARIS).
This journey from Nashoba Systems through Claris to the formation of FileMaker, Inc. reflects the dynamic and strategic decisions that have defined FileMaker’s path to success. From its beginnings to its current status as a leading database software, FileMaker’s story is a testament to innovation, strategic foresight, and the enduring legacy of its origins.
