Row per Layout Object

[SmithTM]

Thanks for looking at my question. I'm new to FileMaker, having been in other environments since the mid '80s.

We have a need to make a report that shows somewhat complex engineering data. We have the data in a table that is keyed by QuoteID and DataTag and DataTagSequence. The QuoteID would be related to other tables. The DataTag identifies the a particular piece of data (like a field name). The DataTagSequence allows for the nature of the data - unpredicatable number of entries in any particular DataTag. That is the sticky point - without that consideration we could pivot or crossTab the data into a single row by QuoteID.

Anyway, I can't figure out a way to report the various dataTags on a single page type report.

If I was using some of the Reporting tools with which I am familiar, I would add an object to the layout and type simple SQL to grab the data. Such as (SELECT value FROM table WHERE QuoteID = variable AND DataTag = "F208") This would return all rows related to the F208 DataTag to the layout object. This would allow me to place the various DataTags in appropriate locations on the form.

Is there a comparable object in FileMaker?

[RalphL]

I am not sure what you are trying to do. Maybe you could post a sample file or some pictures of what you are trying to report.

Edited December 30, 2008 by Guest

[SmithTM]

Here are 2 mockups of data with an associated basic mockup of a form layout.

Note that the data can change: there may be varying numbers of sequences. This makes it difficult to change the data structure (schema) to a single row. Also note that there are more than 500 DataTags per quote.

[RalphL]

Thank You, this helps. I will look at it in detail latter today. I have an appoint this morning.

[RalphL]

Based on the information you provided, I put together a sample database for the 2 Quotes you showed. This database has a report that displays the data you what to show in a different form. Take a look at it and then we answer questions.

FMF20081230.fp7.zip

Edited December 31, 2008 by Guest

[SmithTM]

Thanks Ralph!

With your example and some more reading in the Help system, I was able to at least get the report with breaks idea working.

I deeply appreciate your expertise.

Thanks again

[RalphL]

Glad that I could help.