Displaying different variables/fields to a user

Topic

New Reply

Hi,

I am developing a database which will allow users to generate different word templates. These word templates have some variables that are the same (Eg, ‘client name’, ‘client address’ etc), but most of the variables are different between each template. The database will allow the user to modify these variables which will then be used when generating the Word template. Once the user has chosen which template they want to produce, I want present the user with only those variables that relate to that template.

I’m after ideas on the best way to present these variables to the user after they have chosen the template they want to generate. Here are some ideas I’ve been thinking of and wanted to get some feedback:

[*]Is it better to have ‘hidden’ fields on the same form that they pick the template, and then show certain fields depending on what variable is chosen?
[*]Is it better to have various subforms that are allocated to each template type, and show this subform on the main form when the template is chosen?
[*]Is it better to have the user click a button once they’ve chosen their template which shows a pop-up form and lets them choose their variables?

Cheers,
Jason

Reply | Quote

Replies

The database will allow the user to modify these variables

what do you mean “modify”

Do you mean you want them to enter a value for the variables?

Or do you mean you want them to be able to change the name of the field being used?

Reply | Quote

Hi kentg,

when I say modify, I mean that I want them to enter a value for these variables. Eg, different start/end dates, different case numbers etc.

Would I need to have a different form for each template? The number of templates could be over 100 – is there an easier way to do this?

Cheers,
Jason

Reply | Quote

Hi Jason,

I guess you have a table with the template names in it.

Now add another table with a list of variables required for each template.

Now you can have a form where the user selects the Template and a subform where they can enter the required values.

You can use the same form to enter the required variable records but then prevent the user from adding or deleting or modifying the Variable names.

Kent

Reply | Quote

Hi Kent,

Thanks for that tip. I’m assuming I would have a query that runs that when the user selects a template, it would search a table to find which variables relate to a particular template.

On the sub-form, would I need to build the form which shows all the variables and then use the query to show only the variables I want? Or am I able to (and is it better) to build the form ‘dynamically’ (Eg, only build the form once the user selects which template they want to use?)

Cheers,
Jason

Reply | Quote