Inputs specify values that are to be passed to data groups, typically as parameters to gather data (e.g. as a 'WHERE' condition in a Sql query).

Inputs may be applied at the DSD level and for each data group. Those applied at DSD level are available through all data groups. Those at the data group level are available for the specific data group and any of its children or descendants.

DSD level inputs may additionally have settings that are used in the Select page when asking users to enter selection criteria.

UserId, Login (AD) and CallerId inputs are automatically available to all data groups.

Add a new input by simply specifying a unique id and a name. Note that if a data group input has the same id as a DSD input or a parent/ancestor data group, the one at the data group level takes precedent.

Once added, you can edit the input's settings.

The basic settings for any input are as follows:

• Id - referenced when inserting the value
• Name - to describe the input
• Help - shown as a tooltip for the input
• Format - the entry format (text, number, password, true/false checkbox, date, date/time, text list)
• Function - calculates the input value using the Function Builder
• Sample - an optional value of calculated function used to substitute when obtaining a schema

DSD inputs may be designated as being for user entry, in which case further settings are required to define how the value will be requested in the Select page.

A Label is shown next to the input. Check the Mandatory option if the entry MUST be provided. Check the Hidden option if the entry should be in the page but not shown (e.g. if it's always supplied from an external link). For “text” format inputs, use the Placeholder option to insert a prompt in the entry box.

There are three Lookup Methods:

• None - user will enter a value directly
• From DSD - a list of options will be obtained using a DSD (with the Lookup purpose)
• Options List - a list entered here for the input

If “None” is selected and the form is “text” and entry Mask may be entered to force a specific pattern of the value entered. For example “0000 0000 0000 0000” for a credit card entry. Use the characters 0 (required number), 9 (optional number), A (letters or numbers) or S (letters only) to indicate the pattern. use the test option to see how your Mask works.

If “From DSD” or “Options List” are selected, select the Lookup Style (select list, radio buttons or checkboxes). For a select list you must also specify the number in view Note that a select list with zero in view or radio buttons permit only one value to be select; select list with one or more in view or checkboxes permit the user to select a list of items from the options presented to them.

Use the DSD Picker to choose an appropriate lookup DSD, then choose the data group that contains the list together with the fields that represent the returned value and text (display) value of the options (they may be the same field if appropriate).

Enter a list of return value and display text pairs to be offered to the user. You can use the drag handle to the left to re-sequence the values as required.