Converting Dynamic Fields to Data Sets

How to use a data set instead of a dynamic field

Data sets provide much more flexibility than dynamic fields. Therefore, dynamic fields were deprecated in release 2305.4 so that we can continue to enhance data sets.  You can use the same data set multiple times on the same form and use the same data set and display different fields in different forms. 

To convert dynamic fields to data sets, complete the following:

  1. Make a copy of your original form or use versioning to add a new version of the form so you don’t interrupt your users before you swap out the dynamic field for your data set.
  2. Open two browser tabs to your FormsPro Admin instance. Using the same connections, open one for the dynamic field you’re “converting” and another for the new data set you’re creating. 
  3. In the Dynamic Field Designer (Reusable Components > Dynamic Fields), copy the SQL query for the dynamic field you are converting to a data set.
  4. Using the second opened browser, in the Data Set Designer (Reusable Components > Data Sets), create a data set and paste the query from the dynamic field into the data set. Make the fields hidden or editable, as needed.
  5. Add the data set to a lookup, select, radio button, or dynamic table.
  6. Click to preview the form and verify data populates correctly. You can then make these same changes to the actual form.
  7. Once you are certain the form isn't going to change much more, you can update your reports. Any form change equals a report change, so saving that until you’re satisfied with the changes saves you time.