Web Database using FMP6 very very slow

[Scott F Forbes]

Okay here is the situation. Created a Database file for client to allow for imput of medical data in compliance with future FDA approval of new cancer drug. Client loves the database design and layout Now they want the database published to the Web so that remote users can access the information and update the testing. Here is where things went bad

The access to the Database using the Web Companion is so SLOWWWWWW that you can get a cup of coffee between each new record.

- Is there away to improve performance

- Should I use a third party web companion for FMP 6

- Running FMP 6

- Running on Win2k Server with 256MB RAM and 500MHz prcoessor

- Connected to Internet by 45MB pipe line (Connectivity is not the issue)

- No more tha 8 users will access web database therefore no need to shell out money for FMP6 Unlimited.

- Performance Monitor shows a 100% Processor use when first accessing the database via Web and when starting a new record.

Any and all suggestions appreciated

Thank You

[Unable]

"Client loves the database design and layout ..."

That's great, isn't it fun to design a db which a client loves.

"- Is there away to improve performance"

For use on the web you are probably going to need to change the db which your client loves.

Sounds like you are using IWP. This may help or frustrate.

Good luck.

[Anatoli]

All graphics and Calculation fields greatly reduce the speed of Instant Web Publishing.

There is couple of paths to solve your problem:

1. Terminal Services -- the best and fastest

2. Use FM clients at remote places

3. Program Custom Web Publishing for all necessary routines

[Scott F Forbes]

Yes I am using IWP - and yes I know it is limited and not very creative of me.

Terminal Services was one of my choices but this would require the client to purchase a VLA -

Graphics are at a bare min using IWP and calculations are also very very limited - The DB is pure data entry stuff at this point with futue manipulation being down after all data is in.

What would you suggest for Custome Web Publishing??

Thanks for your suggestions so far.

[Anatoli]

It is the same requirement as IWP.

If you are OK with WebCompanion, you'll be also for CDML and Custom Web Publishing.

It is just much more work, but it is the fastest interface between FM and remote user, when TS is not the option.

You will produce HTML pages, with embedded CDML tags for accessing and modifying records in FM from just browser.

First get CDML Reference database.

Search forums for tips on CDML.

HTH

[Unable]

Images can be served by reference / path and need not directly take up db files with megabits of memory requirements.

Calculations for web should be "unstored".

re: "It is just much more work ...". Well, it is different work. Designing web pages with CDML tags to interface with (most often) as single layout of just fields which do not need to be arranged into a client approved design since the only thing "reading" the layout is the CDML tags. Also, no time spent trying to figure out how (as with IWP) to make the db generate the HTML you want since you write the code. Yeah, it takes a while to learn code. Many folks use Dreamweaver as an HTML editor. You can find many threads here on that.

If you are going to do CWP, you will find reading these Internet forums useful - even threads which are not your immediate problem. Yes this takes time, but it is better than osmosis. Get the CDML Reference Database as Anatoli suggests. Search the CDML forum for a thread with that title. It provides a useful link.

Finally, I like to recommend the Sample Files forum for the examples relating to CDML solutions. There are several.

Good luck.

[mindtpi99]

I've attached the CDML templates that came with FileMaker 4.1 - they include well commented examples of the main forms you need. Just slot your data into the files and you should have the basis of a CWP site up and running in no time. You may also find Maria Langer' book "Database Publishing on the Web with FileMaker Pro" useful - it's a bit out of date but it steps you through setting up sample databases.

[Unable]

"You may also find Maria Langer' book "Database Publishing on the Web with FileMaker Pro" useful ..."

Yes it is useful. However there are some things which are flat out wrong and which can mislead one down a primrose path.

You can probably learn as much or more by dissecting the examples in Sample Files.