How Do I Create More than One Form for a Flat-File DB?

[jdanniel]

Hello, I'm using FM 9 and have a question about forms.

Quite simply, I'd like to have two forms in a simple, flat-file database.

The reason why I want two forms is because I don't want all of the data to be in one form. The second form will contain lengthy text, and graphic images, that may otherwise make one form cumbersome and unwieldy to deal with.

So, I'd like to have a "primary" form and a "secondary" form, if possible.

As of right now, after reading FileMaker Pro's documentation, and after browsing through a FileMaker Pro book I got from the library ([color:red]FileMaker Pro - The Missing Manual), I haven't quite figured out how to do this…or if I can.

Where should I start, please? Thank you very much.

Jd

[Mark DeNyse]

jd,

You can use different layouts, or better yet, use the Tab control so you have one layout with multiple tabs on that layout.

If you go the multiple layout route, you'll need to add buttons to navigate back and forth between your layouts (or you can use the built-in FileMaker control in the status area on the left of the window).

[IdealData]

IN FMP "forms" are called LAYOUTS.

See the help on Creating and managing layouts.

[jdanniel]

Too easy. I don't know why I didn't figure this out sooner. Thank you.

[jdanniel]

One follow-up question. It's a minor one, but I am curious.

I created two layouts for my flat-file database. They both work fine...so far.

There is an icon on the left hand side that looks like a notebook. In layout mode, I can click it to navigate back and forth between my two layouts.

I can't do that in Browse mode. However, I did create a workaround, by putting a button on each layout. I programmed ach button navigates to the other layout. That was easy.

So, not having that notebook icon available isn't a big deal. But I'm just curious...why is it not available to me in Browse mode, and is there a way to enable it?

Jd

[LaRetta]

The notebook in layout mode, as you've discovered, moves between layouts. In browse mode, it moves between records and right above the notebook is a field with an arrow (and above it the words Layout). When you click that arrow you will move between layouts in Browse mode. But you are correct in that it is best to create your own navigation and remove this status area from User access. :wink2:

[jdanniel]

In browse mode, it moves between records and right above the notebook is a field with an arrow (and above it the words Layout). When you click that arrow you will move between layouts in Browse mode.

Hi.

Which arrow are you talking about... the third one in the set of four icons?

I see a paper clip, a light bulb, a vertical arrow, and an icon resembling a sheet of paper with the edge folded.

Is that the arrow you're talking about? When I click that arrow, I switch from Browse to Layout mode.

I don't see any icon I can click that will let me switch from layout to layout in Browse mode.

That's why I created the control buttons.

Jd

[LaRetta]

Right below those icons - the pencil, light bulb, arrow and paper, you will find words in a small white box. Those words are the beginning words of one of your layouts. If you click that word (or the arrow next to it), it will open up displaying all your layouts. Then click on the layout you wish.

But you are right that creating your own layout navigation is best because then you can hide the Status Area. :smile2:

Edited March 2, 2008 by Guest

[jdanniel]

Right below those icons - the pencil, light bulb, arrow and paper, you will find words in a small white box. Those words are the beginning words of one of your layouts. If you click that word (or the arrow next to it), it will open up displaying all your layouts. Then click on the layout you wish.

Oh, okay, now I know what you're talking about.

I perceive that feature to be impractical, because it really opens up a drop down menu, from which you can select your other layouts.

The reason I view that as impractical is it requires extra mouse clicks.

Granted, it might be practical to someone with multiple layouts, who wants to go to a specific layout, rather than go in order. For me, though, with only two layouts in this database, it's just a click or two too much.

I think we're in agreement about the custom buttons I made.

Okay, that's settled. Thanks for helping me.

Jd