I am wrapping up a multi-file solution project and after reading the Filemaker pro advanced development guide, i have one question?

After creating my runtime files in FMPAdv8.5 and packaging it using a third-party installation program, can I still point my newly created desktop shortcut to my main file to start my database or is there something different

the user have to do to start the runtime program?

and packaging it using a third-party installation program

As long as your runtime's .exe file ends up on the user's drive, it acts like any other executable and can be initiated with a shortcut. Inno Setup, to give a specific example of an installer, lets you specify a program icon for that very purpose.

The short answer is YES. When you develope the runtime make sure all of the different .usr's or whatever you named them are in the runtime acknoledgement area. Then the .exe will open them all up. The shortcut on the desktop or start menu should point to the .exe. Oh, by the way, I use Astrum Install Wizard and have for all my setups for over 4 years. It has proven to be the best one for me :