Online Tools

Custom Data Lists

Purpose

This function is used to set up and maintain ‘Custom Data Lists’ that can be used within ‘Custom Data Sets’.  If you’re not familiar with ‘Custom Data Sets’, then we recommend you take a look at the details of that function before determining whether you need to set up any ‘Custom Data Lists’ via this function.

You would create Custom Data Lists when you want to have control over the choices that users are presented with at a given Custom Data Set prompt.  It gives you the ability to control what is a valid selection at that prompt.  This can be important, especially when you want to use the data for reporting.  Lists can either be set up as a drop down list input style, or as a multi-check box input style.  That choice comes down to preference and the number of options you expect to offer at a given prompt.

Remember with lists that you can always come back and include additional items if necessary.  However removing items from a list should be done cautiously.  Always check to see if the item is in use in the custom data first.

Data Input

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Step 1 – List Code

List Code

Enter a new, unique list code, that does not already exist on the system. You may enter an existing list code to allow you to update the settings. The list code is added to the Custom Data ‘set’ when configuring the required inputs.

For details on the use of “codes”, see The Role of “Codes” in Online Advantage
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Step 2 – Code & Text

The existing codes and descriptions in the list are displayed in the grid. You may select the existing code and description to change it.

Use the ‘Add’ icon to add new items to the list. Use the ‘Delete’ icon to remove items from the list.

Justification

Select if the description should be left or right justified. This is used to sort the list in your preferred sequence. Generally speaking, alphabetic lists should be ‘Left’ justification, and numeric lists should be set to ‘Right’ justification.

Code

Enter a code. This code is stored on the database when a user chooses this option when entering custom data.  The code can also be used as an accurate report filtering option.

For details on the use of “codes”, see The Role of “Codes” in Online Advantage

Description

Enter the description for the code you are entering or editing. This description helps the user choose an option from the list.

For more details on descriptions, see The Role of “Names & Descriptions” in Online Advantage
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