Hello everyone,
We're excited to unveil two highly anticipated subform features:
- Bulk additions for subforms via lookup
- Subform permissions
Let's dive into them further:
Bulk additions for subforms via lookup
One of our most significant updates yet introduces the ability to add multiple entries to a subform all at once via lookup.
Subforms can include multiple rows and columns. Previously, users had to add one row at a time on the Records page, which was tedious when it came to large orders. To simplify this task, you can now use the option to add multiple rows. Simply select the "add row" dropdown menu and choose "Add multiple rows."
A pop-up window will appear and show a list of records, enabling users to choose multiple options by checking boxes. To add values to the columns, click "Add values for selection" and then enter or edit values before adding them to the form. For example, if you select the quantity column, you can add or edit the values for that column. After confirming, the chosen entries and entered values will fill the rows, simplifying data entry and management.
To use this feature, just make sure you
allow bulk additions by checking the box in the subform properties page and pick the right lookup field for the module you want to reference. Also, select the columns where you want to add values during bulk selection. It's as easy as that!
![](https://desk.zoho.com:443/support/ImageDisplay?downloadType=uploadedFile&fileName=1719581070867.png&blockId=edbsn02c9de296d4c35b78944f54108376a92d9efe67410e73051afe3f58790ead9bb&zgId=edbsn7709df772cce2825696f51e4f4f5fe02&mode=view)
This process significantly accelerates quote creation and empowers sales reps to associate multiple products with each quote efficiently.
Subform Permissions
Another prominent update is subform permissions. Administrators can now conveniently manage permissions for the entire subform, including enabling users to view, create, edit, and delete. Previously, users could only fine-tune access to individual fields. However, with this update, administrators can modify permissions for entire subforms instead of dealing with individual field-level settings.
Let's consider a use case with two user profiles: a Sales Associate and a Compliance Officer. The objective is to grant the Sales Associate broad access to the entire form and allow them to view, add, edit, and delete information. On the other hand, for the Compliance Officer, the focus is on keeping the subform visible while restricting their access to editing subform data. Using the Set Permission option at the form level, admins can modify different profiles' permissions easily.
![](https://desk.zoho.com:443/support/ImageDisplay?downloadType=uploadedFile&fileName=1719393379434.png&blockId=edbsn2d7ac6905670c65685a28a10275b5520141e6705bc38740505cf8e794672a1c9&zgId=edbsn7709df772cce2825696f51e4f4f5fe02&mode=view)
Administrators can also configure permissions for the entire subform by clicking on the settings icon at the top of the subform and applying specific permissions to all roles.
![](https://desk.zoho.com:443/support/ImageDisplay?downloadType=uploadedFile&fileName=1719580983300.png&blockId=edbsne4388f5669d029e4fa43acae0e36dd787ea07670db162a93e37f3f304428b8d2&zgId=edbsn7709df772cce2825696f51e4f4f5fe02&mode=view)
Subform permissions in portals
The update extends to portals as well, where businesses grant external access to modules to customers, partners, or vendors. Admins can easily add or modify subform permissions within portals, including enabling view, create, edit, and delete permissions for the subform.
Note:
- Users can clone subform rows only if they're given the create permission.
- Users with edit permission can reorder rows.
- To delete rows, users must also have edit access.
With this simplified subform permission management, users have a more intuitive and efficient way to control access.
Release plan: This feature will be released in a phased manner.
To learn more about subforms, please refer to this document:
Building a subform Please let us know if you have any feedback. Thank you and have a great day!