Every list choice has a name that users see and a value that's saved in the submission. This article covers how to add choices and values to each type of list field in the Form Builder.
How list names and values work
Each choice in a list has 2 parts:
Part | What it is |
|---|---|
Name | The text users see on the form |
Value | The text saved in the submission and shown in reports |
By default, the value is the same as the name. Set a different value when your reports need a code instead of the display text. For example, users select Wrench on the form, and the report shows the serial number W123.
Where you add values depends on the list field:
Field | Where its choices come from |
|---|---|
Option List and List | You add them in the field settings |
Global List | A Global List, shared by many forms |
Lookup List | A Lookup List, a file you upload |
DataTable List | A Data Table in the portal |
Add choices to an Option List or List field
Select the field on the canvas.
Under List Options, enter a choice in Add an option..., then press Enter.
Repeat for each choice.
Set a different value
Under List Options, select Advanced Options.
In Name, enter the text users see, for example Drill.
In Value, enter the text to save in the submission, for example D789.
Select Add, then select Close.
To change an existing choice, select the edit icon next to it, update the value, then select Save.
Select Save Draft to save your changes. Users see them after you select Publish.
Add values to a Global List or Lookup List
Global Lists and Lookup Lists come from a file you upload, so you add values by updating the file.
Select the field on the canvas.
Choose the list in Select List, then select View / Edit List.
Review the rows. A Global List has Name, Value, Filter Value, and Score columns.
To change the values, select Download, edit the file, then select Update and upload it.
Important
A Global List is shared. Updating it changes the choices in every form that uses it.
For a Lookup List, you also choose which file columns become the name, value, filter key, and score. Select a column for each in the column mapping, under the rows.
Tip
To start a new list, select <Create New> in Select List. Enter a name, upload a CSV or Excel file, then select Create. You can also manage these lists in the portal under Lists > Global Lists or Lookup Lists.
Add values to a Data Table
Data Tables live in the portal. To add or change rows, go to Lists > Data Tables in the portal.
You can also create a Data Table without leaving the Form Builder.
Select the DataTable List field on the canvas.
In Select Data Table, select <Create New>.
In the Add Table panel, choose how to create the table. You can start from scratch, upload an Excel or CSV file, or connect a Google Sheet or a Quickbase table.
Follow the steps to finish the table.
When you save the table, the Form Builder selects it on the field. The table opens so you can map its columns.
Add choices with the Assistant
You can also ask the Assistant to add, change, or remove choices in an Option List or List field.
Select Assistant in the side bar.
Describe the change, for example Add Urgent to the Priority choices, with the value P0 or Remove Low from Priority.
Send the message.
The Assistant can set names and values. It can't change Global Lists, Lookup Lists, or Data Tables.
Important
When the Assistant replaces all the choices in a list, it keeps only names and values. Check filter keys and scores in Advanced Options afterward.
Note
Assistant changes aren't saved until you select Save Draft.