Copying Layouts

[flowe]

Hi All,

I would like to know the best way to copy a complete layout from one database to another. I have this system that is doing all the wrong things. It is running FMP 5.5 Client and sharing files and also mapping a drive in order to share hosting more files. It goes against everything FMP tells us about sharing files running FMP 5.5. There is no hope of getting FMP Server. Here's what is happening the main file populates a lookup file and that lookup file populates another lookup file. I want to copy all the layouts of these lookup files into one file. Instead of using multiple files I want it to generate new layouts within one database file. I am having problems copying a complete layout between files. What steps are necessary complete this correctly?

Thanks in advance,

Flowe

[CobaltSky]

There is no very easy method; custom layout names, background colours and settings cannot be copied by any method I know of. However the technique I use to transfer all the layout objects in exactly the same positions, to a new layout in another file is:

1. Place a bringtly coloured (and filled) rectangle (graphical object) in the topmost left hand corner of the layout to be copied.

2. Draw a (brightly coloured) horizontal line on top of part of each part divider (if necessary use the arrow keys to nudge the lines until they sity directly on the each of the dividers.

3. Make a new blank layout in the destination file and ensure that its total length (including all parts) is a little longer than the layout to be copied. NB, if a template was used to make the layout to be copied, base the new layout on that template.

4. Ensure that fields with corresponding names for all the fields on the layout to be copied are present in the new file (the names should match exactly).

5. Go to the layout to be copied in layout mode and Select All, then copy. Now paste the result into the layout in the second file and position the group of pasted objects (while still selected) at the absolute top left of the layout.

6. Deselect the pasted objects. Select the brightly coloured rectangle and delete it (it was only for positioning purposes.

7. Hold the 'alt' (Windows) or 'option' (MacOS) key down (to preserve the positioning of layout objects) while dragging part dividers to sit exactly in line eith the brightly coloured horizontal lines from step 2.

8. Delete the brightly coloured horizontal lines.

9. Set the background colours (if necessary) for each part. Also set the layout 'Views', name, columns and or other characteristics from the layout menu.

10. Set the layout 'order' and "include in layout menu" option.

The breath deeply, roll your eyes, fervently wish that FMI would add an "Import Layout" option along the lines of the "Import Scripts" feature. The start checking that all the fields are working, and attaching buttons to scripts in the new file etc etc etc.

If anyone knows any other tricks to shorten this procedure, It'd be great to hear them?!

[LiveOak]

You only forgot a couple of items in your quest for instability and data corruption. 1) only use the one copy of FM and have all users program link to it and 2) always launch databases by navigating to them on your server (never use the hosts dialog box). These additional techniques should truly maxmize your number of crashes and your loss of data. Then you can post messges to the forum complaining about the poor product FMI has provided you.

-bd

[JerrySalem]

LiveOak,

[color:"blue"]2) always launch databases by navigating to them on your server (never use the hosts dialog box).

What's wrong with using 'hosts'? I never heard that one before...

Jerry

[LiveOak]

*******************************************************

ATTENTION ATTENTION ATTENTION

MY PREVIOUS POST WAS A JOKE

*******************************************************

Jerry, you need to read the posts carefully. NOT using Hosts leads to MAJOR PROBLEMS, ALWAYS USE HOSTS. I was trying to point out all the bad practices by prefacing the post with "in your quest for instability". I promise not to use this technique again.

a wiser -bd

[kenneth2k1]

I got some nice beachfront property in Arizona I can sell you cheap.