Dynamic Properties Form
Post date: Apr 6, 2016 5:52:34 PM
Easily add a dynamic user entry form for property tables. Background
BXL apps and models use a lot of “property tables” which hold configuration parameters. Configuration parameters for models include things like the model’s start date, the number of periods, their frequency, starting dollar amounts, etc. These configuration parameters are user modifiable so users can play ‘what-if’ scenarios or use the model for other applications.
What is a Property Table?
As its name implies, property tables hold properties. The characteristics of a property table are:
First column contains property names/labels. These must be unique within the table.
Second column contains property values.
Optionally, a third column contains value description or units of measure.
End users must not be able to add or delete properties from the table. They can only change a property’s value.
Why use a form? Why not just key values in the tables?
Property tables are model inputs. To maintain best practices, BXL models keep inputs separate from outputs. Thus, to maintain best practices without the form, users must set model parameters on one worksheet then flip to another worksheet to see results. That’s a pain. This form lets users keep their results worksheet open and in sight while they set the model’s parameters on a totally different, out-of-sight worksheet.
App Requirements
This app requires XL2007 or higher. It is tested with US regional preference settings in Excel.
The Dynamic Properties From is provided as an XL add-in for non-technical users or as an example for VBA developers. For most applications we expect VBA developers to follow the Direct Integration guidelines so the form can included with an XL workbook rather than having to distribute and load a separate XL add-in.
Get a Copy
Download a copy of the PDF instructions first then find the link to the zip file in it.
