SMFHacks.com

So you are looking for a predefined lists of default values for custom fields?

Right now you can make a field a global field and search for it the search system. Or there is also the image tagging system where a user could click on an keyword to pull up a list of other pictures that have the same tags.

Yes, a predefined list for the custom fields would be ideal. Then having the ability to select which of those fields you want to sort/filter from. Were you able to see my Home Depot screenshot?...I do not see it as an attachment, which I assume is due to my limited postings.

The problem with keywords and custom fields (as they are) is, the wording each User uses will not be identical and, with keywords, the list soon becomes endless and searches yield varying results. By allowing the Admin to define the selections in the Custom Fields, the Tags or Keywords are now common among all users and will yield consistent search results. It is very hard to explain in general terms what I am seeking, but the Home Depot thing really seems to encompass my hope. I could provide examples Specific to the site I am using if that would be helpful.

Thanks.

Has anyone had time to consider this? Members of our forum have posted many pictures and it would be nice to filter for specific criteria as entered in the "Custom Fields" when photos are uploaded.

Just checking in to see if this is something that might be manageable? Or if I need to start thinking about a different approach?

Thanks again,

Bill

The Custom Fields feature, and ability to search them specifically, is awesome.

I am hoping someone could develop a way for the Administrator to "Define" what goes in the Custom Fields....in other words, set predefined options the users can select from when they are uploading pictures and completing custom fields.

Hierarchy....
Name the Custom Field
Define selectable entries for the custom fields
Define whether the user can select single item or multiple items from the predefined list...or free form entry.

Again, I think the search "custom fields feature" is very useful. However, having predefined criteria for the custom fields is equally important due to the fact varying users  may use differing vernacular or slightly different wording, incorrect spelling, etc...

Here is an example I was able to build in Excel...I am not sure if you can open this attachment. I will note the multi-select list isn't working perfectly. I don't know anything about visual basic programming or any other type of coding....just learning as I go.

Thanks

Bill

How do I get this update?

I am a standard member of a forum that is using SMF with Gallery Pro. This forum has been running for about 6 years, but in talking with one of the administrators, they probably haven't spent as much time researching features and capabilities as they could...so I am taking up that task.

I have established a test forum and purchased Gallery Pro to get an idea of things that could be done. I see there is a feature allowing the administrator to make customizable fields for photo uploads...I understand what Required means and I think I understand what Global means. My question/suggestion would be to make these fields searchable...so a members could query for specific information in those fields.

Ideally it would be great to take it a step further, and allow the administrator to fix selectable options (through dropdown or radio buttons) for these custom fields. This would allow for consistency in the field entries and much more reliable search results. Due to the way our particular members enter keywords and descriptions, there are a variety of different words, phrases, etc..and searching for a particular illustration can be a challenge.

If this is anything that is being worked on or if you are interested in how I envision this working, please let me know. I have no understanding of how any of this works....coding, etc...so, I am not sure if what I am seeking is possible.

Thanks

Bill