Using DB2000 Tag Options

The tag options in DB2000 are among it's more versatile features. They can be used for many purposes, probably limited only by the ingenuity of the user. When used in conjunction with User Defined Fields they become even more useful. References to tag options may be found in a number of places throughout the DB2000 architecture.

Roster Grid

 Each DB2000 grid view has the four basic tag buttons on the left of the illustration. With these tags may be cleared, all records tagged or selection inverted.

The C2T button transfers column records containing an entry to the tag list. Remember that when adding to the tag list, successive actions are cumulative. Also, entries can be added or deleted from the tag list by pressing the "Enter" key or by double clicking the mouse.

The DT button allows the bulk deletion of unwanted records as defined by the tag list.

Comm Grid

Tip: If all or most records for an area code change are affected it will be easier to make an SQL query and transfer the result set to the tag list. The shorter list of unwanted ones can then be untagged manually.

The query above will select all phone numbers with area code 941.

Tip: Note the asterisk after the 941. This is the way you tell the database that any character is acceptable after 941.

 The communications grid offers additional tag options.

1. Email tagged records: The email addresses of tagged records are appended to the "To" listing when the email client is opened by clicking the E-mail button. Tip: There may be a limitation in the email client of how many addresses it can include. Usually it's about 20. If your email client won't accept your whole list, you can break it into smaller pieces.

2. Area codes may be changed using the tag options. Usually, when an area code is split, not all records are affected. By tagging the ones that are and entering the substitute area code in the text box, the tagged records will be updated when the "GO" button is clicked. Tip: Be sure that the correct column is highlighted before clicking "GO"

 

User Grid

 

 In addition to the before mentioned tag functions, the user grid offers a Tag List to Column option. This is very useful for keeping lists.
User Grid Example

 Example: It is required to establish a list of Administrative Department Chairpersons. Open the Organization Grid.

1. Click "CA" to clear all tags

2. Select "Administrative Dept Chm" from dropdown list

3. Click "TL" to tag the records.

Note: If you have not filled in the organization, you will have to tag the members manually from the roster grid.

Open the User Grid:

From the "Options" menu select "User Field Options".

From the resulting dialog:

1. Select "Define New Field".

2. Define a Boolean, Yes/No, field.

3. Give it a suitable name.

4. Select "Create Field"

5. Exit from the dialog.

Back in the User grid:

1. Select "Tag List to yes/no Column" from dropdown list

2. Highlight the target column, the one you just made.

3. Click "OK" to transfer tagged records.

You have now created a user defined field containing a list of Administrative Department Chairpersons. You can use this for sending email or in a database query etc..