Field Configuration

Table Configuration > Field Configuration

Your data model defines what you store (e.g., user_email, is_active). Field Configuration defines how humans interact with it.

By customizing three simple properties—Labels, Descriptions, and Position—you transform raw database columns into a guided, intuitive user experience. Unlike legacy platforms that require complex "Form Layout Builders" or code deployments to change a label, Simple allows you to iterate on your UI instantly.

Core Capabilities

1. Display Names (The Label)

Database column names should be technical and immutable (e.g., arr_total). User-facing labels should be descriptive and flexible (e.g., "Total Annual Recurring Revenue").

Changing a Display Name updates the field label on every form, table header, and export file across the platform immediately.

2. Descriptions (The Context)

The most effective way to improve data quality is to tell users exactly what to do before they make a mistake. Adding a description creates a helpful tooltip or hint text directly under the form field.

• Bad: "Status" (User has to guess what the options mean)
• Good: "Status: Select 'Pending' for new requests. Select 'Review' only after manager approval."

3. Positioning (The Flow)

Control the visual order of fields in your forms. Simple uses a numeric Position system rather than a rigid grid drag-and-drop. This ensures your forms flow logically and adapt perfectly to mobile devices, tablets, and desktops automatically.

Best Practice: The "10-Step" Positioning Rule

When configuring field positions, never use sequential numbers (1, 2, 3). Instead, use increments of 10 (10, 20, 30).

Field	Position	Why?
First Name	10
Last Name	20
Email	30	Space to grow! If you later need to add "Middle Name" between First and Last, you can simply set it to 15 without renumbering your entire form.

How to Configure

Editing Labels and Descriptions

1. Navigate to Settings > Table Fields.
2. Filter by the Table you are working on.
3. Click the field you want to modify (e.g., phone_number).
4. Update the Display Name to something user-friendly (e.g., "Mobile Phone").
5. Add a Description (e.g., "Include country code").
6. Save. The form updates instantly.

Reordering Fields

1. Navigate to Settings > Table Fields.
2. Filter by your Table.
3. Assign Position values to your fields using the "10-Step" rule.
   • Note: Fields with no position set are displayed alphabetically after all positioned fields.
4. Save.

Example: Transforming a User Form

The Raw Data Model:

• usr_fname
• usr_lname
• is_new_usr
• usr_email

The Configured Experience:

Field	Display Name	Position	Description
usr_fname	First Name	10
usr_lname	Last Name	20
usr_email	Email Address	30	We will send your login details here.
is_new_usr	Is New User?	40	Check this to trigger the onboarding workflow.

The result is a polished, professional form that requires zero training to use.

Next Steps

Now that your fields are labeled and organized, let's make your dropdowns smarter.

• Reference Field Filtering: Configure intelligent, context-aware dropdowns (e.g., only show "Managers" in the "Approver" field).
• Relationship Display: Customize how related lists appear on your records.