Can I force a user to use the dropdown list ?

[Steven Cappiello]

Can I force a user to use the dropdown value list on a field ?

Note, I still want them to be able to type-to values on the list.. I just don't want

them to be able to type something in the field (thus giving them the chance to

try to enter something that isn't on the value list)

[hayesk]

Put a field validation on the field that indicates it must be already in the value list.

[Steven Cappiello]

Thanks for the advice.. but this does not force them to pick something from the value list..

they could still type something in.. and then get an error when it doesn't pass validation --- I think this is messy design... I know I want my users to pick from that list and I want to make it impossible for them to enter an invalid entry.

I want to prevent them from being able to type anything in

other than what is on the value list.

Is this possible ?

I've heard a lot about filtered selection portals... Is this what I want ?

[Wildfire]

Under your field format settings, try using a Pop-up List option and under your field behavior settings, uncheck "In Browse Mode" under the "Allow field to be entered" choices. You can also use the Pop-up Menu option instead of the Pop-up list, but uncheck the "Other" option.

[Steven Cappiello]

Nope.. that won't work.. you can't enter a field in browse mode if you set that it cannot be entered in browse mode... AND ... I need to use a pop up list because I want the user to be able to type-to the value in the value list.

any ideas ? i have a feeling I need to look into a selection portal...

[Dan-A]

How about an event plug-in (soft4humans) that triggers a script

that wont let the user out of your field until a valid value

is entered

Dan

[mattlight]

why don't you make a table which is actually the value list (1 per record) and display it in a portal which is set as a button for a script that does - set field (current table::required field, value table::result).

Make each of the buttons on the page that exits check to see if there is a value in the current table's required field (proected from data entry) - AND set the field to be a required entry field - so that it is doubly annoying.

That'll work aye?

[mattlight]

if you set that it can't be entered in BROWSE mode, it doesn't mean that a script can't write into that field - in case you ask.