Details fields
Last updated
Last updated
For each category in your configuration, you can include one or more structured data fields (like a mini form or questionnaire) that users can optionally fill out when creating a new observation or map element with that category. Details fields can be text fields (type in your own answer) or multiple choice (select one or select many from a set of pre-defined answers).
Details field screen displayed during data collection with Mapeo Mobile:
When planning your data structure, you should think through which (if any) details fields you would like to include for each category. The same details field can be used for many categories.
For each details field you would like to include, you'll need to define the following:
Label The primary text to be displayed to users ("Name" in the above image).
Placeholder A hint or subtext that can clarify the field to users or provide guidance on how to use it ("Common name of this place" in the above image).
Field type How users will be able to enter information for the field or question.
Text or type in your own answer (Pictured in the image above)
Select one from a list of options
Select multiple from a list of options
Options
For Select one and Select multiple fields, you will need to define a list of possible answers to display.
It can be very challenging for users to type in detailed information when collecting data in the field. Users may be under significant stress, in risky situations, or interacting with the Mapeo screen in bright sun or rain. When creating Text fields, keep in mind the conditions users will be facing and have reasonable expectations for the amount of detail and work required to fill out your details fields.
If there are a consistent set of answers you can anticipate for a field or question, it can be much faster or easier for users to select from a list as part of a Select one or Select multiple field. Please note that there is no automatic option for typing in information for "Other" or an option not included in the list.
It may be very clear to you when authoring your configuration what each details field means or intends to communicate. Keep in mind, however, who will be collecting data as part of your project and how they might read or interpret each field. Very clear and explicit language can go a long way towards ensuring your configuration is used as intended.
Mapeo Desktop currently allows you to filter observations by options in Select one fields. To filter by options in Select multiple or Text fields, you will need to export your data and view it in another software tool.
All information you define for details fields will be formatted in JSON in the Coding configuration process, detailed in the following section.
If you are not comfortable working with JSON, this information can be be passed off to someone with technical skills to complete the steps in Coding configuration.
