Introduction
Forms are an integral part of any solution. They are used within apps and can be used to create visualizations within Kepion or Power BI. If forms are not designed optimally, users may encounter unnecessary difficulties or issues. This article provides best practices for building performant and useable forms.
Set default members for filters
Select the lowest member within a hierarchy as the Default Member to optimize performance when a form is first opened.
DON'T
Use SQL over MDX
When possible, use SQL scripts over MDX scripts. Using SQL scripts will help improve the performance of both your Form and your Application.
Add Cell Attributes
Add cell attributes whenever you need dynamic formatting that will affect the Dimension Members on a Form. Cell attributes are also used to validate input and override certain properties of a cell.
Use Static Cell Formatting
If you need formatting that isn't dynamic, we recommend you format by rows and or columns because it will decrease the overall Form size. For example, if you want to add a splash of color to your Form, you can highlight the row, and select your color of choice.
Hide Empty Rows and Columns
Turn on the Hide Empty Rows and Columns options. This shrinks the size of the Form to just where there is data.
Simplify Design
To simplify your Form's design, considering doing the following:
- Limit the number of Dimensions on the rows or columns.
- Limit the scope and size of the Form.
- Shrink large Forms down with more Filters.
- Disable unnecessary features, or redesign the Form in a way that doesn't need them (annotations, drop-downs, cell attributes, increase/decrease colors).
Use Multiple Forms
Break large Forms into multiple smaller Forms, and place them side-by-side on a Dashboard.
Build Validation Relationships
Build Validation Models and define relationships between Dimension Members, to limit how many actually need to exist on the Form.