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Create Data Types

This video explains what data types are as well as how to edit and create them.

Written by Eamon
Updated over 2 weeks ago

This video provides a comprehensive guide on how to create, manage, and utilize custom fields within the platform. You will learn how to tailor data entry points to fit your specific business requirements.


How do I access the Data Types menu?

To get started with managing your data structures, you need to navigate to the main configuration area. Go to the sidebar and click on the 'Data' icon, then select 'Data Types' from the sub-menu. This will open up the main dashboard where all your current data objects are listed.

πŸ’‘ Action Steps

  • Click on the 'Data' icon in the sidebar

  • Select 'Data Types' from the menu


How do I create a new Data Type?

When you are ready to build a new object, look for the 'Create New' or 'Add Data Type' button located at the top right of the screen. Click this button to open the creation modal. You will first be prompted to enter a name for your data type. Make sure to choose a unique and descriptive name that follows your naming conventions.

πŸ’‘ Action Steps

  • Click the 'Create New' button

  • Type a name into the 'Data Type Name' field

  • Click 'Save' or 'Create'


How do I add fields to a Data Type?

After creating the basic type, you need to define the individual fields. Click on the 'Add Field' button within the data type editor. You'll need to specify what kind of information this field will hold, such as text, number, or date. Enter the field label and the system will automatically generate the internal key for you.

πŸ’‘ Action Steps

  • Click the 'Add Field' button

  • Enter a label for the field

  • Select the appropriate data type from the dropdown


What are the different field types available?

You have a variety of options when choosing field types. You can select 'Text' for short entries, 'Rich Text' for formatted content, 'Number' for numerical values, or 'Boolean' for true/false toggles. If you need to link this record to another data type, you can use the 'Reference' field type to create a relationship between objects.

πŸ’‘ Action Steps

  • Select 'Text' for basic strings

  • Select 'Number' for integers or decimals

  • Select 'Reference' to link to other data types


How do I configure field validation?

To ensure data integrity, you can set specific rules for each field. Click the 'Validation' tab or the gear icon next to a field. Here you can mark a field as 'Required' so it cannot be left blank. You can also set character limits or define specific patterns that the input must match before the record can be saved.

πŸ’‘ Action Steps

  • Click the settings gear icon on a field

  • Toggle the 'Required' switch

  • Enter values for 'Minimum' and 'Maximum' lengths


How do I edit an existing Data Type?

If you need to make changes later, simply find the data type in your list and click on it to reopen the editor. You can change the names of fields, add new ones, or delete fields that are no longer needed. Keep in mind that deleting a field will also remove any data stored in that field across your existing records.

πŸ’‘ Action Steps

  • Select an existing data type from the list

  • Click on a field name to edit its properties

  • Click 'Update' to save changes


How do I reorder fields in the view?

The order in which you define fields is how they will appear in the entry forms. To change this, you can use the drag-and-drop handles on the left side of each field row. Simply click and hold the handle, move the field to its new position, and release. This helps you organize the interface for your users.

πŸ’‘ Action Steps

  • Locate the drag-and-drop handles next to the field name

  • Drag the field to the desired position

  • Save the layout


How do I delete a Data Type?

If a data type is no longer required, you can remove it entirely. Go back to the main Data Types list and look for the 'Actions' menu or the trash can icon next to the type. You will be asked to confirm this action, as deleting a data type will permanently remove all associated data and configurations.

πŸ’‘ Action Steps

  • Click the 'Actions' or 'More' menu next to a data type

  • Select the 'Delete' option

  • Type 'CONFIRM' or click 'Yes' in the warning pop-up

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