Focus on List input options

The List data input type in Willow360's "Supply Information" and "Fill in a Form" actions provides a powerful way to collect structured data efficiently. The List data input type allows users to select from a predefined set of options presented in a dropdown menu. Each list item can have a display text that is separate from its data value, providing flexibility in how information is presented and stored.

Types of List Items

  • Text
  • Number
  • Email
  • User
  • Date

A list of dates 

 

Examples and Use Cases

1. Text List

Example Use CaseApproval Status

  • Display Text: "Approved", "Pending", "Rejected"
  • Data Value: "A", "P", "R"

Why It's Useful: This allows users to quickly select the status of a document without typing, ensuring consistency in the data collected. The display text is user-friendly, while the data value can be used for backend processing or reporting.

2. Number List

Example Use CaseRating System

  • Display Text: "Excellent", "Good", "Average", "Poor"
  • Data Value: "5", "4", "3", "2"

Why It's Useful: Users can select a qualitative rating that is easy to understand, while the numerical value can be used for calculations or analytics. This separation helps in maintaining clarity for users and precision for data analysis.

3. Email List

Example Use CaseSupport Contacts

Why It's Useful: Users can select the appropriate department for their query, and the system can automatically route emails to the correct address. This ensures efficient communication and reduces the chance of errors.

4. User List

Example Use CaseTask Assignee

Why It's Useful: Users can easily assign tasks to specific individuals within the organization. The display text shows the user's name, making it easy to identify, while the data value (email) is used for notifications and tracking.

5. Date List

Example Use CaseProject Milestones

  • Display Text: "Kickoff", "Midpoint Review", "Final Presentation"
  • Data Value: "2025-04-01", "2025-06-15", "2025-09-30"

Why It's Useful: Users can select key dates for project milestones. The display text provides context for the date, while the data value ensures precise scheduling and tracking.

Configuration and Collection Options

Supply Information

Overview: Prompts users to fill in a form at specific points in the workflow, collecting metadata for later use.

Configuration Details:

  • Instructions: Displayed at the top of the form to guide users.
  • Inputs: Configurable fields such as Customer Name, Customer Account Number, Total Amount on the invoice.
  • Who Supplies the Information: Multiple people can be designated to provide the information.
  • Validation: Different types are validated according to their format (e.g., Email must conform to email format).

Example Workflow:

  1. Invoice Processing: The workflow prompts the user to enter the invoice amount, customer name, and email.
  2. Approval: The approver's email is collected to send notifications.
  3. Shipping: The customer's address is recorded for shipping purposes.

Fill in a Form

Overview: Allows users to start workflows by filling in a form, generating a PDF document from the entered data.

Configuration Details:

  • Document Title: Used for the created document's title and file name.
  • Document Text: Optional text added to the document content.
  • Form Inputs: Configurable fields such as Name, Date, Reason.

Example Workflow:

  1. Onboarding: The user fills in their name, start date, and department.
  2. Task Assignment: The workflow assigns tasks based on the collected data.
  3. Document Generation: A PDF document is created with the entered information, continuing through the workflow.

Conclusion

The List data input type in Willow360's "Supply Information" and "Fill in a Form" actions provides a powerful way to collect structured data efficiently. By separating display text from data values, it ensures clarity for users and precision for data processing. Utilizing these options can streamline workflows and enhance data management.