Part-time access to Limited Fields Possible?

[Dswain]

I'm having trouble keeping some users from accidentally entering new record information on top of previously entered records (Not hitting the "New Record" button before typing away and erasing the record they're currently on). I adjusted privileges so they can create new records, but not edit. This solved the problem except for the fact that I still need them to have access to a notes field on the table (Regardless of who entered the record initially or when it was entered).

I'd also like to have a way for them to knowingly edit a record, say by hitting a button that says "I want to edit this record". I just need them to be aware they are editing.

Any help is very much appreciated.... David

[mr_vodka]

You could always use a duplicate layout that is editable. Then when a user clicks the button to edit, it bring them to the editable layout.

[Steven H. Blackwell]

Makes the "notes" field a related filed in a different table. Then make a lock field in the main table, auto-enter 1. Set the edit privileges for records in the table to test on that lock field. When user is finished with record, have a script change the 1 to a 0. Then the notes field is forever editable, but the main record is not.

Steven

[Dswain]

Looks like I need to study up on Lock fields and scripting to change status after entry. I was thinking along those lines, but not familiar with the process. I'm also not sure how to go about making other fields in the table editable again upon request. Any recommendations on a good source for studying Scripts?

[Dswain]

Thanks for your input. My skill level might end up requiring a solution similar to this until I can learn more.

[mr_vodka]

I would start with these whitepapers on security.

http://www.filemaker.com/support/security.html

[Amazin1]

I have done essentially what Steven suggests having lock/unlock field with a timed script trigger running in the background. So if a change is needed to be made, you click lock/unlock field to unlock. Changes can now be made. There is a five minute time limit. After five minutes, the record is locked. In addition, there is another trigger that locks the record if you leave the record. I am loving script triggers!

[Steven H. Blackwell]

Just be sure to protect the lock field so that it cannot be changed elsewehre.

Steven