Use checkboxes to select which columns to use

[johannes25]

Hi,

first post on the board. haven't been using filemaker very much although a lot seems somewhat intuitive.

my problem is as follows:

I have a database with 70k+ posts in a table with 8 columns. let's refer to the columns as A, B, C.. etc.

I want to be able to print the results of a search but instead of trying to fit all 8 columns next to each other on a letter sized paper with lots of redundant information if only the A column changes between the posts, I want to use checkboxes. (Or any other bright idea you guys might have).

I'd like to use 8 checkboxes to select which of the 8 columns I'd like to print. for example, If I want to print A, B, and F, I'd check those three boxes and click print which would bring me to another layout, with a nice overview, ready to print.

Is this easy to create? or should I think of another way to go about the printing.

I'm more familiar with mysql and it would be a piece of cake if my boss would let me use something else than filemaker. (Don't get me wrong, it seems great. I just don't know very much about it =) ).

cheers,

Johannes

Edited August 9, 2006 by Guest

[Ender]

Yes, this is possible. Here's a method using globals for the column choices and GetField() to show the results.

DynamicReport.fp7.zip

[jrRaid]

Ender,

Thanks for your sample file.

However, I see that in the calculations you're using the same 'fieldnames', exactly the same name as in the define fields section.

I use a different namingconvention, with underscores, prefix and suffix.

I find it kind of weird to use those labels as columnname, like nameFirst or postCode_lu (for a lookup).

I think I have to play with the GetField() and the use of ("") around the fieldname, but don't know exactly how or what or where or when.

Care to help me here ?

Thanks

[Ender]

You would either need to map the user-selectable fields to your actual field names within the calc, or refer to another table that has the mapping.