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Form Builder - Text Block

Purpose Statement

The Text Block feature in Form Builder allows administrators to add formatted text content, including dynamic data fields, to custom forms across multiple modules. This feature enables the creation of professional, informative forms that can automatically populate with relevant data from associated records, improving form efficiency and reducing manual data entry.

Background Information

The Text Block is a versatile form element available in Form Builder that supports rich text formatting, dynamic data field insertion, and various text styling options. This feature is particularly valuable for creating standardized form templates that include instructional text, disclaimers, or contextual information that automatically updates with record-specific data. Text Blocks are commonly used in inspection forms, permit applications, invoicing and investigation reports to provide consistent formatting and automated data population.

Required Permissions

Users must have Form Builder access permissions and administrative rights to create or modify forms within the specific modules (Inspections, Permits, Invoicing, or Fire Investigation). Form editing capabilities are typically restricted to administrators and designated form managers.

Video


Step-by-Step Guide




1.  Create a new form or select edit to edit an existing form.






2. Mouse over in the left margin at the current block and select the + sign to add a Text Block under the current Block.






3. Select Text from the drop down menu.






4. At the curser, enter your text.  Copy/paste will work here.






5.  Select Tune to apply justification, add a data field (see next step), move up and down, or delete (select the X 2 times).






6. Select Tune then select to add a Data Field to your text.
  1. Make sure your curser is at the point in your text you want the data field.
  2. Make sure you have a space before and after (if you have text after the data field) the added data field.




7. Select the data field and then save.
  1. The data fields available will depend on what module you are building your form in.




8. Example of an added data field:
  1. The added data field will bring in the data from the associated record.






9. Select any added text and use the text tool for formatting options.
  1. Convert Block to: List, Quote, Checklist or Heading.
  2. Add a url link.
  3. Bold
  4. Italics
  5. Change case
  6. Underline
  7. Font size
  8. Marker (Highlight)
  9. Font color




Best Practices

  • Always include proper spacing around data fields to ensure clean text flow and readability
  • Test data field integration with sample records before finalizing forms
  • Use consistent text formatting across similar form sections for professional appearance
  • Consider the end-user experience when positioning instructional text and data fields
  • Regularly review and update text content to maintain accuracy and relevance
  • Utilize text formatting sparingly to maintain form clarity and avoid visual clutter

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Common Issues and Solutions:

  • Data fields not populating: Verify the selected data field is appropriate for the module and record type being used
  • Formatting not applying: Ensure text is properly selected before applying formatting options
  • Text Block not saving: Check that all required fields are completed and save the entire form after making changes
  • Spacing issues with data fields: Add spaces before and after data field insertions to prevent text concatenation

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Q: Can I use HTML formatting in Text Blocks? A: Use the built-in formatting tools rather than HTML code for best results and compatibility
  • Q: What happens if a data field has no value? A: Empty data fields will appear as blank spaces in the generated form
  • Q: Can I copy Text Blocks between forms? A: Text Block content can be copied and pasted, but data field associations may need to be reconfigured