Related databases

[Nagasaki]

I have two databases, one called "mailing" the other called "members." When someone is entered into the mailing database, they automotically get assigned a serialized customer id #. Then when we got to enter the person in the member database, we just put in the customer id # and their info pops up.

I have a simple question - because both databases are linked together, do they both need to be open if you are making changes in one? My boss is under the impression that they do, but I know I'm pretty sure you don't. (Lol, please tell me I'm right on this one)

Thanks for indulging a newbie!

[John Mark Osborne]

If you are only making changes in one of the databases, only one of them has to be open. However, FileMaker will open the other related file when a related field or portal is displaying on the current layout. Or, if you popup a menu the uses an index from the other file, it will open. In one of these scenarios (and a few others) the file will open as hidden and the open script will not run. You will find the file under the Window menu unde the Show Window submenu. If you happen to select the file from this menu, any open script will run at that point.

[IdealData]

I suspect that you are both right!

Your boss is correct, because he's thinking logically - it must be open otherwise it can't be accessed. You are also correct because you know you didn't open the file yourself - it's done automatically.

You might just get away with a draw!