Using Windows as Forms

The purpose of this page is to help you configure iDempiere by using normal Windows, Tabs and Field to capture data from users like you would in a Google Form for SurveyMonkey.

Note: the term 'form' in iDempiere is a technical word that refers to a window created purely from code (as opposed to using the Application Dictionary). This page does not refer to this 'code' type of form. Instead, we are referring to the type of form that you would fill out at a doctor's office.

The expected user experience when filling out a form goes like this:

• User opens an iDempiere window
• The iDempiere creates a new record automatically for the user
• User completes the form and clicks a 'Save and Submit' button

The implementation of this is quote easy:

• Create a new table and window like you would normally using the "System" Client.
• Set the Window window => Tab tab => SQL Where field to "1=2".
  • The 1=2 value ensures you always get prompted with a new record and that users cannot see previously submitted values.
• Set the Window window => Tab tab => Single Row Layout field = 'Y'.
  • Single Row Layout ensures the user does not see the new record in grid view.
• Add a Button to the record/window. Note that the button does not need to be tied to an actual process. Instead, simply adding a button (even when not tied to any code) automatically saves the record, and it creates a more natural user experience.

Other considerations:

• If you wish to tie the button to code to automate the creation of something (like a request), that is fine.
• If you wish to create a Home Page => Activity section => Document Status record to notify a specific user/role about newly created form submission, that is fine.
• If you have a form whose life cycle is longer than simply completing a couple of fields and clicking submit, you can modify the Window window => Tab tab => SQL Where field to represent something more complex. Example:
  • @#AD_User_ID@=createdby and Processed='N'
  • This example shows all records created by a specific user that have not been fully processed.
• If you wish to have new submissions in one window, and currently active or archived in another window (both build on top of the same table), that is fine. The Archive window would be read only and only show records of that user.

If you have questions or comments about this page, please email the mailing list at chuboe-id-training@googlegroups.com. Thank you for your time and consideration!