Calculating the value of a field

After you add a field to your data model, you can use an expression to calculate the value of the field at run time. For example, you can associate the Total Time field with an expression that adds together individual values, such as hours and minutes, or generates a subtotal from a list of time sheets.

1. Access the field, based on the way that it is defined in your data model.

   To view fields in a data type:

   1. In the explorer panel of Designer Studio, click Data to display the Data Explorer.

   2. Click the name of a data type.

   3. Click the Data model tab.

   To view fields in a case type:

   1. In the explorer panel of Designer Studio, click Cases to display the Case Type Explorer.

   2. Click the name of a case type.

   3. Click the Data model tab.

   4. Optional: To display fields that are inherited by your application, click Show reusable fields.

2. Click the Gear icon in the row of a field.

3. Select the This is a calculated field (read-only) check box.

   Not all field types support this display mode.

4. Define a calculation by calling a function, referencing properties in an expression, or creating an advanced expression.

   To call a function:

   Follow these steps when the field stores a numeric value, such as an integer or decimal.

   1. Select an option in the Function list.

      For example, you can calculate an average or find a maximum value.

   2. In the Field list, select a single-value field that is defined in a repeating field group.

   3. Click Submit.

   To reference a property from a numeric field:

   1. In the Function list, select Custom.

   2. In the smart prompt field, enter an expression without quotation marks that uses property names, functions, dot notation, and mathematical symbols.

      Press the Down Arrow key to see which properties you can reference.

   3. Click Submit.

   To reference a property from a non-numeric field:

   1. In the smart prompt field, enter an expression without quotation marks that uses property names, functions, dot notation, and mathematical symbols.

      Press the Down Arrow key to see which properties you can reference.

   2. Click Submit.

   To create an advanced expression:

   1. Click Open.

   2. Configure the Declare Expression form by defining a list of properties and their expected values.

   3. Click Save.

   4. Close the Declare Expression form and return to the Calculation dialog box.

   5. Click Cancel.

5. Click Submit.

At run time, the field is displayed in read-only mode. Your application evaluates the expression and stores the results in the property that is associated with the field.

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