How to automatically import remote XML data into FileMaker?

Question

I'm using FileMaker Pro 13 and would like to automate the importing of remote XML data. These imports will both add and update records based on a unique ID.

I already have a valid XML feed and XSLT file but cannot find any way to automate the import of this web accessible XML data.

I can accomplish the import successfully, but only manually.

• "File->Import Records->XML Data Source..." -- Does not have a recurring option.
• "File->Import Records->File" -- Cannot use HTTP and cannot read XML.

Is this possible with FMP13? If so, how?

Answer 1

The problem I kept running into was it seems that I cannot use HTTP to fetch the data. filemaker.com/help/11/fmp/html/scripts_ref1.36.68.html Is this now possible in FMP 13?

It is possible now, and it was always possible (ever since version 6, when XML import was first introduced). From the above page:

The XML and XSLT source may be a file or the result of an HTTP request, or a calculation that generates a file path or an HTTP request.

The script step you need to use is Import Records. Under 'Specify data source' select XML Data…, then, under 'Specify XML data source' select HTTP request: and enter your URL into the text box (or calculate it using the Calculation option).