Create a freeflow text or number entry attribute

Introduction

This document will explains how to enter free flow or free entry text or number attributes in ParagonERP.

Process description:

A freeflow text or number attribute is used for fields of information that need to be entered manually (by typing), and are not predetermined to pick from a list. For example, somebody's name or phone number is a freeflow text entry. This attribute type can also be used for creating percentage attributes.

Step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Open attribute setup

From any screen, click the settings button. This will bring you to the settings page.

Under the attributes card, click on attribute setup to access the attributes setup module.

Step 2: Create a new attribute

To add an attribute, click the create new attribute button.

Step 3: Name your attribute

Enter the attribute name. Then, click the next button.

When you click the next button, the conditions listed below the name will be validated:

The name must begin with a non-space character
The attribute name must be unique
The name can't be changed once the attribute is used
The name can't contain the < and > characters

Step 4: Choose the attribute type

Choose the type of attribute you want. You can select from:

In this case we want to select freeflow text or number entry.

Once you've selected the attribute type, click the next button.

You will be asked if you want to use the free flowing text as text or as a number.

Select the option that applies:

Text: Select this option if the values entered will be text or numbers that do not have a mathematical meaning such as phone numbers.
Number: Select this option if you'll need to perform mathematical equations on the values entered. This would also be used to set a percentage attribute as long as the % sign is used in the name of the attribute.

Once you've selected an option, click the next button.

On the next screen you can decide the attribute's specific details. You can assign the minimum and maximum number of characters allowed and whether or not you want special formatting for your freeflow text entry attribute.

An example of formatting is a Person ID that consists of 8 numbers with a dash (-) separating the two sets of four. To do this, enter in four spaces, a dash (-), another four spaces.

If you do not require special formatting, leave this field blank. Once you are ready to move on, click the next button.

On the next screen you can decide what text appears for this attribute, by default. Any time this attribute is used, the text you enter here will display until you change it.