I know this isn't possible "natively" in FMP, but I'm wondering what the best way to fake it might be.

Within a portal, I need to vary what field/control type is displayed. This will be based on a categorical field in the related table. Basically, for each record in the portal I'll need to hide one control and show another.

For some portal recs, I want to show a drop-down list. For others, I want to show a checkbox group. In no case will I need to show both for a single portal row, and I want if possible to show up in the same horizontal position.

I could think of a number of ways to do this if I were working with a single-record layout instead of portal. But within a portal it's trickier.

Any suggestions for where to start?

Let me know if this isn't enough info and I can elaborate.

Hi Matthew:

... But within a portal it's trickier.

Yeah, the "ol' portal-hide trick" isn't an option since we can't place a portal inside another portal. Wish we could ... maybe in future versions.

I don't know of any way to dynamically change a field's setup during Browse Mode. Seems you will indeed have to "fake" it for your users.

You've probably considered these options, but what about (1) separate layouts or (2) Tab panels? I favor the latter since it keeps the layout-count down. You could copy/edit the portals with the distinctions you need. There are some techniques for concealing/disguising Tab panels, so you may be able to obtain the overall effect you're wanting.

Do you think this will work for you, or are there other limitations or requirements?

Thanks, Guy.

I don't know that your suggestion will get me what I'm looking for, however. I really need the checkboxes and drop-down lists side-by-side (or rather one on top of the other.)

The idea here is to have a single list of related records, where for each, depending on the value of a field in the record, it will give the user either the list or the checkboxes in one "column" of the portal.

The ability to see both on one screen is important.

I don't see how using tab panels will enable this. Could you elaborate?

I'm beginning to think this isn't really possible in FMP 8, and am starting to look at other avenues to address the issue.

Thanks!

M.

No, and I misinterpreted your goal. :sorrysign:

Hey, thas awright, man, no worries!

Seriously, I know how hard it is to grasp what someone's asking solely from reading a rambling, incoherent post sent at 1am after banging one's head agianst the wall for hours.

Thanks for putting some of your time into this.