Data entrance forms in FileMaker?

[nhjelmberg]

Hello! I'm a FileMaker beginner and have started to play around with FileMaker. Can anyone guide me in how to create data entrance forms? Basically, I want my users to add data in a simple form and then press a button which verifies their data before it's recalculated and inserted into the database as one or more posts. Is there a standard method to do this or do I have to use temporary forms and/or scripts? I use FileMaker Pro 5.5.

[LiveOak]

The standard method does require both a unique layout and scripting. The user would enter the data into a set of global fields created specifically for the purpose of data entry. Upon selecting and "Enter" button, a script validates the data, creates a new record, copies the data from the global fields to the fields in the new record, and finally, clears the global fields.

-bd

[Steve T.]

Thanx, BD. I've been creating the record from the start and following up with an edit page for user verification; I hadn't thought of using global fields/new layout/script.

Hi, nhjlmberg... obviously I haven't made a DATA ENTRANCE FORM yet but if you have the skills (I don't), I've seen references in the Internet forums about folks doing field verification for web-based password/login systems (essentially mini-forms right?) using javascript et al. I guess it's personal preference.

[jasonwood]

I have been using this method in one of my databases (which is on a network) and I noticed that sometimes you will get an error "[somebody] is modifying this record" .

This database is used only for data entry. You cannot view the data fields, only globals... so users start on the first record.

Here's what I did to get around this... just wondering if there is a better way.

Each user logs in using a username and password (I have a separate users database), and each user is assigned a "home record". On startup, I send them to their home record. This doesn't affect the user, because as I said, they only work with global fields.

[nhjelmberg]

Thank you very much! It's good to know that there is a forum for FileMaker to obtain help from.