How do classification sets work?

Setting up and using classification sets.

Mike Meesseman avatar
Written by Mike Meesseman
Updated over a week ago

Classification set lists in Fulcrum let you create predefined hierarchies and schemas for classifying data into a standard format from the field. This allows you to create more manageable pick lists that drill down to more specific choices options. They can then be used in specialized classification set fields within your apps.

Classification set fields act as single choice fields allowing the user to select one option from each of the levels presented.

Example

Before reviewing how to create a Classification Set, let us review an example.

A classification set list could be used for selecting the model of a car.

Instead of creating a choice list with all the different car models from all the different manufacturers, a Classification Set can simplify this process.

You start by creating a list of the different car manufacturers and then for each manufacturer, you can list the different models they produce.

This way you will first specify the manufacturer and then the following set of options will only show the models for that manufacturer.

Creating a Classification Set

On the left-hand side menu click Setup to display the available options and then select Classification Sets under the APP SETUP section.

  1. Once you are there, click the + New Classification Set button, to create a new list. 

  2. On the classification set builder page, drag and drop the classifications into the canvas area (it works like the App Designer).

    1. You can nest options beneath others to form your list schema. To do this, drag the classification under the main one, until you see a green dotted line. It is possible to add multiple nesting levels.

Once you have created all the classifications you need to complete your set, click the SAVE CLASSIFICATION SET button. Your new Classification Set will be added to the List page. From here, it is possible to edit any existing classification sets you have created. Just click on its name, make your changes, and don't forget to save.

Advanced Functionality

The value attribute to the right of each label name allows you to set a backend value, so the label (the field label presented within Fulcrum) can show a human-friendly label, and the value can be used to stored the more system friendly value.

Here is an example of the difference between labels and values:

  • Label: “Samsung Galaxy S5” (user-friendly, easy to read)

  • Value: sm-g900v (system friendly, short)

When data is exported, the export file will contain the values instead of the labels.

Notes

  • You can also import classification sets if you already have them built in a spreadsheet format.

  • Classification set fields act as single choice fields and only allow you to select one path to the deepest level of your classification set list.

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