11.0 custom dec documentation

Jim Jensen · October 17, 2011, 10:08:57 AM

The custom dec page engine has been updated in version 11.0 to 32-bit. It's appearance is very different from prior versions. It's not a big deal for viewing/entering policy data. However, making changes to a custom dec is a big mystery - can't figure out how to do it. Getting there is the same, but once in the form, I don't see how to alter/add anything to a screen.

I went to the AS portal to find documentation on it and it appears that there is none to speak of. There is a bit of information in the help files (only if you search for it) while in TAM, but I still don't see how one is supposed to add any text or data fields.

Apparently there's a webinar on custom decs, but isn't labeled as version 11.0. I'll have to go find it. The tech couldn't find any written documentation other than that brief help file entry.

Jan Regnier · October 17, 2011, 12:20:44 PM

Well, that sucks....... shouldn't be that difficult to find information ESPECIALLY if they made a big change to the process. How can Support NOT have that info?...

Jeff Zylstra · October 17, 2011, 12:58:12 PM

Could it be something as simple as hitting the "insert" key? I know - a hair brained approach, but once in a while you get lucky.

Jim Jensen · October 17, 2011, 01:05:16 PM

Quote from: Jeff Zylstra on October 17, 2011, 12:58:12 PM
Could it be something as simple as hitting the "insert" key? I know - a hair brained approach, but once in a while you get lucky.

I tried a few things like that, ctrl-insrt, shift insert, right clicks, etc. I'm sure it's something reasonably easy, but it's not on the menu bar!

Jim Jensen · October 17, 2011, 01:23:51 PM

Quote from: Jim Jensen on October 17, 2011, 01:05:16 PM
Quote from: Jeff Zylstra on October 17, 2011, 12:58:12 PM
Could it be something as simple as hitting the "insert" key? I know - a hair brained approach, but once in a while you get lucky.

I tried a few things like that, ctrl-insrt, shift insert, right clicks, etc. I'm sure it's something reasonably easy, but it's not on the menu bar!

ok, I finally figured some of it out (completely by accident, of course). To add a field, double-click on the TextBox words at the top-right (see attached). Or double-click on the "label" to create text label. It just drops one in the top-left corner and you then move it to where you want it and resize it. It's a bit clunky, actually. Maybe someone else will accidently find a better way.

Jan Regnier · October 17, 2011, 01:37:51 PM

Thanks for the "keys to the kingdom"....doesn't look very user friendly.... and you would think there would be some documentation on this.

Lance Bateman · October 17, 2011, 02:36:20 PM

On the "other site" - Graham posted a document with more complete documentation on the custom dec on 11.0 which may be of help. Looks like (not sure) no problem if adding fields toward the end, not sure what would happen if you wanted to insert one in the middle of the form.

Jim Jensen · October 17, 2011, 03:08:14 PM

I don't know that there's any way to insert any lines between the existing items without having to individually move each field and label.

I'm not saying it's impossible, but that I have not stumbled upon by accident.

brinkerdana · October 17, 2011, 03:14:10 PM

Quote from: Lance Bateman on October 17, 2011, 02:36:20 PM
On the "other site" - Graham posted a document with more complete documentation on the custom dec on 11.0 which may be of help. Looks like (not sure) no problem if adding fields toward the end, not sure what would happen if you wanted to insert one in the middle of the form.

Lance, could you copy Graham's post here or email it to me?

Thanks,

Lance Bateman · October 17, 2011, 03:19:59 PM

Can't post it here, it's apparently too large (I think screen shots). It's on the other site under "TAM Online". Or you can give me your email, and I'll send out what I saved from the site.

Bob · October 17, 2011, 03:24:18 PM

Print the file to Adobe PDF it will shrink in size and fit here.

Lance Bateman · October 17, 2011, 03:27:09 PM

Trying the pdf doc

Jan Regnier · October 17, 2011, 03:40:39 PM

Thanks Lance....looks like I am going to need a Webinar on this one. With this much change I can't believe they didn't put together some documentation.

GeorgeW · October 17, 2011, 03:59:59 PM

We had a custom dec. that wasn't working after the upgrade and it took the support tech quite some time to figure out the problem and then how to correct it.

Jan Regnier · October 17, 2011, 05:31:41 PM

Quote from: GeorgeW on October 17, 2011, 03:59:59 PM
We had a custom dec. that wasn't working after the upgrade and it took the support tech quite some time to figure out the problem and then how to correct it.

I "Chatted" with support this afternoon asking for any documentation for TAM 11 and custom decs - the tech simply stated what Jim said earlier....look at the HELP file...I told him that wasn't the info I was looking for. He then sent me THAT info & told me that Custom Decs "automatically transfer over" with 11.0. I told him I knew that but I want documentation on HOW to make changes to existing custom decs...not how to make one - but info on how to make one with 11 would also be good info to have. I haven't recd any additional info yet. So, it looks like the Techs don't know any info either.