Skip to main content

Search

Knowledge Center

Form Builder - Adding Custom Data Fields

Purpose Statement

This feature enables administrators to add custom data fields to permit forms, allowing departments to collect specific information tailored to their operational needs and compliance requirements. Custom data fields enhance form flexibility and ensure comprehensive data capture for permit tracking and reporting.
 

Background Information

The Form Builder's custom data field functionality allows Fire/EMS departments to extend standard permit forms with department-specific information requirements. This is particularly valuable for departments that need to collect specialized data for inspections, compliance tracking, or integration with other systems. Custom fields can include text inputs, dropdowns, checkboxes, and other field types to accommodate various data collection needs.
 

Required Permissions

  • Form Builder Access: Users must have Form Builder module permissions to create and edit permit forms
  • Permits Module Access: Users need access to the Permits module to navigate to Form Builder
  • Administrative Rights: Typically requires administrator-level permissions to modify form structures and add custom fields
     

Video


 

Step-by-Step Guide

​
1. Click on Permits.
 
Click on Permits
 
2. Click on Form Builder List.
 
Click on Form Builder List
 
3. Click Create Form to create a new Permit Form.
 
Click Create Form to create a new Permit Form.
 
4. Select Edit to revise an existing Permit Form.
 
Select Edit to revise an existing Permit Form.
 
5. Click Add in the section above that which you desire the Custom Data Fields to be added.
 
Click Add in the section above that which you desire the Custom Data Fields to be added.
 
6. Select Custom Field.
 
Select Custom Field.
 
7. Click on Tune for the new section just created.
 
Click on Tune for the new section just created.
 
8. Select "+" for each Custom Data Field to be added to the Form.
 

 
9. Select the dropdown for each Custom Data Field added and select the appropriate data field.
 
Select the dropdown for each Custom Data Field added and select the appropriate data field.
 
 
Note: In this demonstration, 4 Permit Custom Data Fields were added to the Permit Form
10. Click on Save.
 
Click on Save
 

Best Practices

  • Plan Field Layout: Before adding custom fields, map out the logical flow and grouping of information to ensure user-friendly form completion
  • Use Descriptive Names: Choose clear, intuitive field names that field personnel will easily understand
  • Test Field Functionality: After adding custom fields, test the form with sample data to ensure proper functionality
  • Consider Mobile Usage: Keep custom fields simple and touch-friendly for field personnel using mobile devices
  • Regular Review: Periodically review custom fields to ensure they remain relevant and necessary for your operations

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: The custom field dropdown is empty or not showing expected options A: Verify that custom data fields have been properly configured in the system settings. Contact your system administrator to ensure custom field definitions are properly set up.

Q: Custom fields are not saving data after form completion A: Check that all required field properties are configured and that users have appropriate permissions to submit forms with custom data.

Q: I can't see the "Tune" option for my custom field section A: Ensure you've properly added the Custom Field component first. The Tune option only appears after the custom field container has been created.

Q: How many custom fields can I add to a single form? A: While there's no strict limit, consider form usability and mobile device performance. Best practice is to limit custom fields to essential data only.