LIMS - Consolidated Forms

Purpose

The Consolidated Form Designer is a tool that is used to create a consolidated dataset based on data that exists on other test forms. You can use this tool to bring data from multiple test forms (belonging to the same sample) on one report. Some examples where this may be helpful include:

• Consolidating key data points from multiple tests onto one summary report
• Consolidating data from multiple tests of the same type and creating a report that brings that data together (i.e. 5 concrete cores are tested on 5 separate forms and the data needs to be averaged and reported together)
• Consolidating data from multiple tests of the same type similar to the way a Concrete Cast Cylinder report is generated in MetaField (sample data on the top and a grid of multiple specimens with their lab test data towards the bottom)

The key understanding here is this tool creates a dataset that can be used on a report. It does not create a form that you interact with on the screen like other DIY forms.

Creating a "Consolidated" Test Grid

The report image below shows the end result goal of a "consolidated" test grid. This is an example of how the dataset will take like data from multiple tests (belonging to the same sample) and combining that data in a data grid on a report. Each row in the table on the report is from a different test record / form. Also note the use of calculations on the report to insert an "average" line at the bottom of the table.

Below the report image is the consolidated form setup. A few sample-level fields were placed at the top (Sample Number, Sample Date, Technician). Then a data grid was used to aggregate data from multiple tests into one consolidated table. That table stored the following data: Specimen Number, Test Number, Test Date, Tested By, Width, Height.

Creating the "Consolidated" Data Grid

• Click The Add Field button
• Select the Consolidated Test Grid tab in the resulting pop up

Adding Fields to the "Consolidated" Data Grid

• Click the Add Field button within the data grid
• Make sure you are on the Form Field tab in the pop up

Creating a "Summary" Test Grid

The report image below shows the end result goal of a "summary" test grid. This is an example of how the dataset will take identified data points / fields from different tests (belonging to the same sample) and make that data available for reporting. Each "column" in the Tests section of the report shows data from different tests belonging to the same sample.

Below the report image is the summary form setup. A few sample-level fields were placed at the top (Sample Number, Sample Date, Technician). Then a data grid (one for each possible test form) was used to define which fields from each test needed to be summarized.

Creating the "Summary" Data Grid

• Click The Add Field button
• Select the Consolidated Test Grid tab in the resulting pop up

Adding Fields to the "Summary" Data Grid

• Click the Add Field button within the "data grid"
• Make sure you are on the Form Field tab in the pop up

Using Consolidated Data On Reports

Use the Report Designer button in the form designer to create / edit reports related to the consolidated dataset.