Andy, Depends upon how long the "final data" is. I had the same problem with a system some years ago and managed to format the output report with multiple selected options as per a VFP Options Group and the output looked rather good, as it is always in a fixed format. I used boxed "X" fields and/or the tick character from Wingdings to indicate selection. With about 5 on a line you'd only need 4 lines to show all options.
In addition of course you can always do frequency analysis on the result set unlike with free format fields where it is impossible. I'd go for integer fields with bit settings for the stored data or even discrete Binary (Y/N) fields depending on the analysis required. The hack your own bitmaps seems a little operation overkill and too code specific in my mind. As for Comma delimited lists, I hate them unless you are producing lists of "keywords" where they are the only solution due to the infinite possibilities. I think they look a tad amateurish on reports. Dave Crozier -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Andy Davies Sent: 29 August 2007 09:48 To: [email protected] Subject: multiple choice lists Hi, one of my users has finally listened when I tell them that free text data entry isn't a good basis for producing reports, but they now want to be able to select n options from a list of twenty or so (by about four sets of options). I haven't done multiple choice [drop-down] lists but I don't see any serious problem (?), nor do I see too much trouble with storing the data** but how do you show this sort of data in reports - all suggestions welcome. ** the options I've thought of (SQL Server) are i) straightforward named 'bit' fields in the relevant tables ii) separate key/ code tables iii) hack your own bitmaps iv) comma delimited lists (my bosses preferred solution). Anyone got other ideas? thanks Andrew Davies MBCS CITP - AndyD 8-)# ********************************************************************** Manchester City Council supports Smokefree England - 1 July 2007 This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager. This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. Please contact [EMAIL PROTECTED] with any queries. ********************************************************************** [excessive quoting removed by server] _______________________________________________ Post Messages to: [email protected] Subscription Maintenance: http://leafe.com/mailman/listinfo/profox OT-free version of this list: http://leafe.com/mailman/listinfo/profoxtech Searchable Archive: http://leafe.com/archives/search/profox This message: http://leafe.com/archives/byMID/profox/[EMAIL PROTECTED] ** All postings, unless explicitly stated otherwise, are the opinions of the author, and do not constitute legal or medical advice. This statement is added to the messages for those lawyers who are too stupid to see the obvious.
