Business cases

Empowering students through Claris FileMaker: k7’s transformative training approach

Explore how k7's transformative training approach using Claris FileMaker empowers students at WSB Merito Universities to become problem-solving innovators.

Cathy

29 July 2024 • 4 min

We exchanged with Milosz Staszewski, Apple Certified Trainer and CEO of k7, who shared insights into their journey and how teaching FileMaker low code programming at WSB Merito Universities shapes the future of the next generation.

Academic higher education institution established in 1995, WSB Merito Universities specializes in economic, social, humanities, technical and health sciences and are on the high position in the Perspektywy 2024 ranking of private universities.

k7, a renowned Poland-based IT company, has been at the forefront of Apple software development since 2005. Their journey began with native macOS applications and evolved with the advent of the iPhone, transitioning into iOS native development. k7 has a constant presence on the Mac App Store since its inception, and has been participating in various Apple programs for almost two decades.

How did k7 start their journey with Claris FileMaker?

k7 development team got introduced to Claris FileMaker serendipitously at one of European Apple events, where they were directed to a nearby FileMaker event in London.

“It was kind of a revolution for us!” reminds Milosz.

Initially, k7 perceived FileMaker as a desktop-only solution, but this event changed their perspective, showcasing Claris FileMaker as a quick and easy tool for mobile-centric solutions as well. As a result it wasn’t long until k7 became a Claris Partner in Poland as well as Apple Consultants Network member, to bring the value of both Apple and Claris technologies to the Polish market.

What immediately became obvious to k7 team was FileMaker’s cost-effectiveness in delivering solutions – either as part of a larger package (combining native code and FileMaker) or as a standalone product. All of this nicely aligned with k7’s goals for their Apple Consultant Network activity.

Why WSB Merito University invested in low code courses? 

Low code and no code solutions very often look like a ‘missing puzzle’ that everyone is trying to find these days. We are living in a digital world. We rely on digital products, we use digital tools. Low code and no code technologies facilitate preparing those tools and products. This is why WSB Merito Universities academic staff really started experimenting with them and introducing this kind of platforms into the curriculum.

Milosz

Sebastian Sobczyk, the IT Faculty Manager at WSB Merito University in Wroclaw, observes the growing interest in courses oriented towards Apple and Claris.

We have seen quite an interest in this Apple and Claris-oriented courses. Both businesses in our region and students are getting more and more aware of low code/no code technologies and their benefits. We are looking forward to increase the number of courses focusing on Claris FileMaker.

How learning low-code will help students in their career?

Polish economy has been growing steadily for over 30 years, a record high in the EU and one of the top results in the world. The country needs a well-skilled and flexible workforce. A dream scenario employee for this kind of a market is a problem-solver: a person who understands different problem domains and is capable of quickly delivering answers. These days a way to produce those answers relies heavily on the ability to rapidly build a digital tool. And this is where the low code/no code approach – and Claris FileMaker specifically – really shines.

Milosz

Why FileMaker is a game-changer?

“k7’s training approach emphasizes practical, hands-on learning. This method not only enhances the learning experience of the students, but also equips them with tangible skills for the job market. When introducing FileMaker for business apps development, we try to empower our students to become “hero problem solvers” by enabling them to create functional apps within a (relatively) very short timeframe. FileMaker acts as a booster that unlocks students’ creative potential.” says Milosz.

Finding about Claris FileMaker during my studies was a kind of revelation. It greatly speeds up product development and creation on various business apps. It was the tool that made me believe, that I can start my own business and quickly build any necessary helper and automation tools.

Karol Bukowski – k7/Merito studies graduate, Mycka IT founder

In today’s dynamic landscape, students are bombarded with new technologies.
FileMaker’s self-contained nature is also a kind of welcome advantage, allowing a motivated individual to solve specific problems with a single tool. And last, but definitely not the least: it is very cost efficient.

What is Milosz advice to graduates?

k7 advocates for both Apple and FileMaker certification, providing students with an opportunity to showcase their expertise, particularly relevant in the context of discussions around AI replacing junior developers.

“Our advice to students: Think outside the usual career progression path. Join this exclusive club of Apple and Claris certified professionals in the CEE region, and become our competition!”

The training delivered by k7 team at WSB Merito emphasizes continuous skills improvement, reassuring students that achieving a high level of expertise will open doors to desirable positions and professional opportunities. Claris FileMaker, with its comprehensive toolset, can play a crucial role in helping students to realize these aspirations.

Apple-oriented studies at WSB Merito University in Wroclaw are unique on a country level. Our students work with official Apple curriculum, and get hands on experience with both Apple and Claris technologies. FileMaker has its own role in the process as an easy-to-learn and very flexible solution for preparing complementary tools.

Milosz

By bridging the gap between academia and industry needs, k7 contributes to empowering the next generation of developers and innovators in Poland and beyond.