Understanding Datagrids in reBB

What are Datagrids?

Datagrids are a powerful feature in reBB that allow you to create dynamic, repeatable sections in your forms. Think of them as a way to generate lists, tables, or any content where you need multiple similar entries. Datagrid Example

Dynamic Input

A datagrid lets users add multiple rows of the same type of information. This is perfect for scenarios like:

• Creating lists of items
• Adding multiple contact details
• Generating structured repeatable content When used with templates, datagrids enable you to create complex, dynamic output formats.

Creating a Bullet Point List

Imagine you want to create a form that generates a list of items:

1. Add a Datagrid component to your form
2. Inside the datagrid, add a text field
3. In your template, use the dataset wildcards to generate the list

Template Example:

[list]
{@START_itemList@}[*]{item}
{@END_itemList@}[/list]

(Note: Be careful as to how breakpoints / new lines are handled on your forum.)

Creating a Table of Information

For a more complex example, you might create a table of participants:

1. Add a Datagrid with multiple fields (name, age, role)
2. Design a template that uses these fields

Template Example:

[table]
[tr][th]Name[/th][th]Age[/th][th]Role[/th][/tr]
{@START_participants@}[tr][td]{name}[/td][td]{age}[/td][td]{role}[/td][/tr]{@END_participants@}
[/table]

Dataset Wildcards

• Always use {@START_gridKey@} and {@END_gridKey@} around your repeatable content
• The grid key is the key you assign to your datagrid component
• These wildcards tell reBB where to insert the repeated rows

Mandatory Usage

• All dataset wildcards (marked in red) must be used in your template

Limitations

• You'll need to add at least one row manually when filling out the form
• Ensure your template matches the structure of your datagrid
• Due to implementation limitations, as of v1.3, you're unable to add mandatory fields into datagrids, this is planned to change in the future.