Importing layouts with scripts etc. so they are fully functional

[ChangeAgent]

I what to import two related layouts (one holds data used by the other) from one DB in to a second DB. Can this be done and have them being fully functional (scripts, drop-down menu, etc.) in the second DB?

If so the next question is of course, how? Look forward.

[bcooney]

No, you cannot import layouts at all. Layouts do not hold data, by the way, tables do. You can import tables and their data. You can also import scripts. You can copy/paste layouts.

However, FM is very context sensitive. You will find when you import that you'll need to "reconnect" all fields on a layout and references to fields in the scripts. It is essential to name the table occurrences identically. Then, FM might correctly assign the fields after you copy/paste a layout. However, you need to review it all after the "move."

[ChangeAgent]

mm, thanks, sounds like a royal pain in the ...

But your answer is appreciated anyway, no short cuts.

[normanicus]

I think the trick is to copy and paste the layouts first, then import the tables, then import the scripts.

[Fenton]

Actually it is better to just create the layout, but blank, and copy/paste at the end. First, this is assuming that the Target and the Source files have the same underlying structure, relavant table(s) and fields.

1. In the Target file, create the Table Occurrences (TOs, relationships) needed for every element on the layout. If the relationships are the same (functionally), but named differently from the Source file (and you like the existing names), then go to a copy of the Source file, and rename the table occurrences there to match the Target.

2. Create the layout, just blank, but tied to the correct TO.

3. Import the Scripts. Check that they saw that layout (and other relevant layouts). If not, adjust.

4. Copy/paste the layout objects. Check that elements lined up. The fields usually will. Set the View, to have "Show; Sample data" not checked, so you can see the field names. No names means did not line up, TO was not named correctly; best to undo the Paste and try again. The buttons might have lined up with their scripts; but you must check the buttons, as you cannot see directly whether they're lined up or not.

Then everything is in place when you Paste, and FileMaker has the best chance to line things up.

Much of the more complex lining up depends on how similar the Source and Target files were.

Edited October 19, 2010 by Guest