What do I do if I hit the 15 column limit?

Note: This method of creating Dependent Reference Data has been replaced with the simpler one-file method described in this help topic. However, multiple files are still required if you have reached the 15 column limit per file.

You can use this feature when you need to upload lists of products, codes, or other data that is specific to another list in your form.

You can set up these lists by importing comma separated value (also called CSV) files, the Google Sheets integration, or using GoCanvas webservices. This article focuses on the CSV file method but please visit this article to learn more about uploading Reference Data using Google Sheets.

This tutorial will look at selecting a parts list based on a manufacturers list.

This tutorial will look at selecting a parts list based on a manufacturers list.

Step 1: Creating your Reference Data files

Reference Data files are most easily created using Microsoft Excel. You will then Save As or Save the file as a CSV file. CSV is the only file format that GoCanvas will accept.

With Dependent Reference Data, you will need to create two CSV files. The first file will only contain the data for your first list of options.

Your second CSV file will also contain the data listed in the first file; however, each option will be repeated for as many items that are dependent on that selection. You’ll need to ensure that the column header you create in the first file matches the column header you use in the second. 

Step 2: Uploading your Reference files to GoCanvas

To upload your files follow these steps:

1. Click on Reference Data & Images in your navigation. Note: If you are adding reference data to a Department, click My Department.
2. Click on the Add Reference Data button in the right-hand corner.
3. Name your file and write a description if you like.
4. Choose the file from your computer.
5. Hit Save to upload the file

Click here to view our video tutorial.

Step 3: Mapping the fields in your form to your Reference files

1. Navigate to the. Forms page .
2. Click on Edit next to the particular form you're wanting to map your reference files to OR click on Create New if you are building one from scratch.

Mapping your first Reference Data file

First, you will need to map the file that contains the determining list data only. In this scenario, that is the file that only lists the manufacturers as the manufacturer selected will determine the list of Items that can be selected.

1. Find or create the Drop Down field in your form that will list the first set of options.
2. If not already open, click to expand the Field Settings.
   
   
   
   
3. Scroll down the field settings and expand the Reference Data tab.
4. For the Reference Data drop down select the reference data you uploaded for the first list.
5. For Reference Column drop down select the column from your reference data that has the data you want your field to access.
   
   

   

Mapping your second reference data file

1. Find or create the Drop Down field in your form that will list a second list dependent on your first selection.
2. If not already open, click to expand the Field Settings.
3. In the Reference Data option, select your file that includes the dependent data (all data).
4. In the Reference Column option, select the name of the column in the file that contains the data you want your field to access.
5. For Reference Screen select the screen in your form that contains the determining field. In this example, the Item list is determined by the selection from the Manufacturer list. So the screen that contains the Manufacturer field should be chosen here.
6. Map the Reference Field to the determining field.
   
   
   
   
7. Click Publish to device to view it in action!

You can determine if a field or screen contains reference data if the Reference Data icon appears.

Learn about creating dependent Reference Data using a single file.