Скачать или смотреть How to Use Input Fields Without Table Relations in FileMaker

Discover how to create input fields in FileMaker that aren't tied to database tables but can still enhance user experiences. Explore best practices for implementing custom input fields for search and computation.
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Enhancing User Interaction in FileMaker: Using Input Fields Not Related to Any Table

When developing applications in FileMaker, the relational nature of its database is often a double-edged sword. While the ability to correlate data across tables is powerful, it can sometimes restrict the flexibility needed for certain user interfaces. One common challenge among FileMaker developers is creating input fields in the user interface that aren’t directly tied to a database table. This can present obstacles when designing custom search filters or handling computation without relationships to existing fields. Let’s explore how you can effectively incorporate such input fields into your projects.

The Challenge: Input Fields Without Database Ties

Use Cases

Custom Search Interface:

You want users to filter data based on two calendar date inputs rather than the default FileMaker search interface. Though there are methods to filter data using "startdate ... enddate," a more intuitive custom interface is preferred.

Data Entry and Computation:

Users need to enter technical data into separate fields. After entering data, this should be parsed by a script and combined into one database field. The data is stored temporarily and does not need to be saved permanently in the database.

The Solution: Utilize Global Fields

The good news is that FileMaker has a built-in solution to this dilemma: global fields. Here’s how you can make use of them effectively.

What are Global Fields?

Global fields are special types of fields in FileMaker that can exist in any table and are accessible across all tables in the database. However, here's the catch: they don't retain their values after the session ends if the file is hosted. This makes them perfect for temporary data collection.

How to Implement Global Fields

Step-by-Step Guide

Creating Global Fields

Navigate to your desired table in FileMaker and create a new field.

In the field options, define the field type (like text or number) and check the option for "Global Storage." This allows the field to temporarily store input across layouts without being saved in the database.

Designing the User Interface

Add fields on your layout using the global fields you just created. For your custom search/filter interface, include two global date fields (for start and end dates) so users can enter their desired range easily.

You can label the fields clearly to guide users, enhancing usability and clarity.

Using Scripts for Data Handling

To process data entered in these global fields, set up a script that triggers when the user inputs information. For instance, a calculation script can be triggered when the users input dates or technical data.

Write a script to perform the appropriate search or computation based on user input in global fields.

Displaying Search Results or Computations

Use the results from your calculations or filtered data to populate other fields or layouts in FileMaker. This can provide immediate feedback to users based on their inputs, enhancing the overall user experience.

Benefits of Using Global Fields

Flexibility: Enable temporary data entry without needing a permanent database relation.

Improved UX: Create customized user interfaces that lead to better engagement and ease of use.

Simplified Logic: Handle complex computations and data entry without cluttering the database design with unnecessary tables or fields.

Conclusion

Incorporating input fields that are not tied to any tables in FileMaker can impact the user experience positively. By leveraging global fields, you can create intuitive interfaces for searching, filtering, and computing data withou