List Form Controls

The various list controls provided in InfoPath 2003 give the user ways to list items that are then captured in the data source. A list item, almost by definition, must be repeatable ” otherwise it couldn't form a list. Therefore, list controls must be bound to components of the data source that can repeat. If you attempt to use a list control for a data source component that cannot repeat, you will receive an error message and InfoPath won't allow you to insert the list control.

Bulleted List Controls

To use the bulleted list control, simply drag the control to the desired position in the form area, remembering that it must be bound to a repeating component of the data source. Figure 4.34 shows the initial appearance in design mode.

Figure 4.34. Initial appearance of a bulleted list control in design mode.

A bulleted list can be used to collect itemized information from a user. Figure 4.35 shows the use of a bulleted list control to collect suggested agenda items for an upcoming meeting.

Figure 4.35. Suggested agenda items collected in a bulleted list control.

Numbered List Controls

A numbered list control is very similar to a bulleted list control, with the same constraints on binding to the data source. A numbered list control collects ordered data.

Plain List Controls

A plain list control is similar to the bulleted list control and the numbered list control, with the disadvantage that in form-filling mode, it is invisible by default!

To make any practical use of the plain list control, you must provide explanatory text and alter the default appearance of the control. Manipulating appearance is described in Chapter 6.

To learn more about styling form controls, see "Styling Form Controls," p. 114 (Chapter 6).