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What are Forms?

Designer Administrator
This manual is in pilot operation.

Forms are design objects that define the specifications for reports displaying ledger data and screens for entering data into the ledger. Forms can be used for various purposes including:

  • Manual data entry

  • Report creation

  • Data import from files (with code conversion feature)

  • Data export to files

A form must have a unique label within the application and can have an arbitrary name.

When accessing ledger data using forms, Ledger Access Control is applied.

Features

Forms have several features:

  • Easily create complex matrix-type reports: Management reports typically involve various dimensions on both vertical and horizontal axes, often including calculated columns or rows. These reports can be easily created using the Form Designer.

  • Input and output functionality: A single form can be used both as an input screen and as a report. When entering data, rounding and period allocation can be performed as specified. Validation (integrity check) of input data is also possible.

  • Maintenance-free adaptation to organizational changes or addition of accounts: Reports and screens created with forms can automatically reflect changes in the dimensions.

  • Calculation capabilities: Formulas can be set for columns or rows. Calculations can be performed on the form, and the results can be written back to the ledger.

  • Drill-down capability: It’s possible to configure columns, rows, or cells to navigate to a detailed form upon clicking. The destination can be the same form or a different one.

  • Data import with code conversion: Data in CSV format can be imported. Code merging and code conversion are also possible.

  • PDF file output: Reports created with forms can be printed, and further, they can be output in PDF file format (available from the preview screen).

  • Export: The contents of reports and screens created with forms can be exported in CSV format. CSV format data can be easily handled with Microsoft Excel.

Please note that the application of these features depends on the designer’s decision for each form. Some features may not apply depending on the form’s design.

Simple Forms and Full-Featured Forms

There are two types of forms: "Simple" and "Full-Featured".

Simple Forms

By simply assigning dimensions to the vertical and horizontal axes, you can very easily create reports or input screens. However, there are some restrictions, such as the inability to use formulas.

Full-Featured Forms

Forms are created by combining columns, rows, and loops (repeating items). Using formulas among other features, you can create very complex reports or input screens.

Simple forms can be converted to full-featured forms (the reverse conversion is not possible). Simple forms excel in ease of setup, while full-featured forms offer a wealth of functionality and flexibility. Starting with a simple form and converting it to a full-featured form if necessary is recommended.

Distinguishing between Excel-Link and Forms

The application areas of Forms and Excel-Link overlap in part. Refer to the document Excel-Link and Forms, which to use? for guidance on which to use when.