How to Optimize Linked Records in a Form

Welcome to another episode of SmartTips. I'm Jeff Gonzalez, and today I'm going to walk us through how we can optimize the way a linked record field appears within a form. We’ll explore how to filter out specific options, control the sort order, and even include field-the values from those linked records.

Let's jump in and see!

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In this episode, we'll dive into enhancing the usability of linked record fields within forms. Specifically, we’ll cover:

• Filtering out specific options
• Controlling the sort order
• Including field-led values from linked records

Here’s a sneak peek of the form we'll be working with.

Understanding the Project Request Form

Within our project request form, we have a variety of fields sourced from our projects table. Here are some of the fields we're dealing with:

• Product Description (SmartDoc Field)
• Attachments Field (Files and Images)
• Projected Cost (Currency Field)
• Perceived Complexity (Number Field)

Today, our focus will be on the team assigned to the project. This information will be pulled from our table of teams, using a linked record field.

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Working with Linked Record Fields

Linked record fields allow us to pull data from related tables, which can be incredibly powerful. Let’s explore how it works.

Modifying the Record Selector Modal

We’ll begin by opening up the linked record field to inspect the modify record selector modal. This modal provides control over which fields of information will be visible to users during their selection process.

In this modal, you can:

• Sort the fields
• Filter the options

This functionality mirrors what you can do in views within SmartSuite. But here, it’s tailored specifically to linked record screens in forms.

Previewing the Form

Now, let's get a preview of the form to see how it looks. With our assigned team field, we’ve chosen specific fields of information to display. This enhancement greatly assists users in understanding their selections more clearly.

Detailed Steps to Optimize Linked Records

Step 1: Access the Form Designer

To start, access the form designer within your project request form. Here, you’ll see the array of fields available for configuration.

Step 2: Configure Linked Records

Find the linked record field for team assignments. Click to open the modify record selector modal.

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Sorting and Filtering

In the modal:

• Sort Order: Arrange the teams based on criteria such as alphabetical order, project priority, or team lead.
• Filter Options: Exclude teams that are overcapacity or not relevant to the current project.

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Step 3: Include Field Values

Now, enhance the field by including additional values from the linked records. For instance, you might want to add columns like team lead’s name, current project status, or capacity.

Step 4: Review and Save

Once you’ve configured the settings, preview the changes to ensure everything looks good. Make any necessary adjustments, then save your form.

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Benefits of Optimizing Linked Records

Optimizing linked records in your forms leads to several benefits:

• Clarity: Users have a better understanding of their choices.
• Efficiency: Easier and quicker to locate the right team.
• Accuracy: Reduces the potential for selection errors.

Conclusion

Optimizing the way linked records appear in your forms can significantly enhance your workflow. By sorting, filtering, and including essential field values, you can create a more intuitive and user-friendly experience.

If you have any questions, leave them in the comments below. And as always, thanks for watching!