I have a database that is multi user. There are 16 fields on the layout that the users see, there are about 12 fields on the layout that have data automatically entered based on information from other files and what is entered on the "log in" screen. So when the users sees their data entry screen all they have to do is enter in 3 fields. I need the 3 fields that they enter data into to do the following: The users enter the data, the users click on a button which takes the entire record to a "central file", in the meantime the user only sees the data that they entered in the 3 fields disappear and all the automatic information "stays" until she clicks on a button to end their job for the day. I have been reading information on global fields but from what I understand since the database will be on our Filemaker Server and the users will all be guests, that if I use global fields not all of their information will get into the "centralized" file, only the "hosts" information. I need all information that is entered. Thank You in advance for your reply.

The values within global fields do disappear for a guest of files being hosted by FM Server when the files are closed. This is usually not a problem, if you recognize this and use globals accordingly. If you use your globals for data entry, then copy the global values to real fields in some file when the user enters a "submit" or "entry" key, all will be fine. You just have to store information in global or non-global fields based upon how it is used.

-bd