📍 Background
Kafinea's main interface
Introduction #
The Layout Editor allows administrators to customize the structure of forms for each module: add, move, or hide fields; create new blocks; and rearrange the layout of information. It can be accessed via Settings > Layout Editor.
1. Customize a module #
To customize the layout of a module:
- Go to Settings > Layout Manager
- Select the module you want to customize
- The editor displays the current structure of the form, including its blocks and fields
Available actions:
- Move a field: Drag and drop a field from one block to another, or reorder the fields
- Hide a field: Make a field invisible in the form (existing data is retained)
- Make a field required: specify which fields must be filled in during registration
- Add a block: create a new group of fields to organize the information
- Create a custom field: Add a new field to the module (text, number, drop-down list, date, etc.)
2. Types of custom fields #
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Text | Free-text field (single line) |
| Text box | Multi-line text field |
| Formatted text | Text field with formatting (bold, italics, lists, etc.) |
| Decimal | Decimal number |
| Integer | Integer |
| Percentage | Percentage |
| Currency | Amount with currency |
| Date | Date picker |
| Time | Time selector |
| Email address with format validation | |
| Phone | Phone number |
| URL | Web link |
| Drop-down list | Select from a list of predefined values |
| Multiple-select checkbox | Multiple selection from a list of values |
| Checkbox | Yes/No value |
| Skype | Skype ID |
| Link button | Clickable button linking to a URL |
3. Best Practices #
- Don't overload the forms: include only the fields that are actually used
- Organize into logical sections: group fields by topic (general information, address, accounting, etc.)
- Use required fields sparingly: too many required fields slow down data entry
Important: Deleting a custom field is permanent and will result in the loss of the associated data. If you’re not sure you’ll no longer need a field, consider hiding it instead of deleting it.
4. Frequently Asked Questions #
Do these changes apply to all users?
Yes, the layout is the same for all users of the module. It is not possible to have a different layout based on role.
Can I modify Kafinea's standard fields?
You can move, hide, or make the standard fields required. However, you cannot delete them or change their data type.
How do I add a custom drop-down list?
Create a field of type Dropdown, then define the possible values. The values can be translated into every available language.