Manual

The Manual Data Source lets you enter data directly into an Avonni Dynamic Component's configuration. This provides a simple way to populate components with small, static datasets without connecting to a Salesforce object or external source.

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1. Overview

The Manual Data Source is the most straightforward way to provide data to specific Avonni components. It's best suited for:

• Small, Static Datasets: Data that doesn't change frequently (or at all).

• Prototyping and Demos: Quickly creating sample data to demonstrate component functionality.

• Testing: Providing controlled data for testing component behavior.

• Simple list of options: Like options for a combobox.

It's not recommended for large datasets, frequently changing data, or data that needs to be synchronized with Salesforce records.

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2. Supported Components

The Manual Data Source is typically available for components that display lists or collections of data, such as:

• Data Table

• List

• Carousel

• Lookup

• Combobox

• And potentially others (check the specific component's documentation)

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3. How it Works

1. Select the Component: Add the Avonni component (e.g., Data Table) to your Dynamic Component.

2. Choose "Manual" Data Source: In the component's properties panel, find the "Data Source" setting (or similar) and select "Manual."

3. Enter Data: The component's properties will now display an interface for entering your data. The exact interface varies depending on the component:

   • Data Table: You'll typically see a table-like interface where you can add rows and columns, and enter data into each cell. You can often define the data type for each column (Text, Number, Date, etc.).

   • List: You might enter data as a comma-separated list or have individual fields for each item's properties.

   • Carousel: You might enter data for each slide in the carousel (e.g., image URL, title, description).

   • Lookup/Combobox:: You will define the list of options available.

4. Preview: The component will immediately display the data you've entered.

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4. Use Cases and Examples

• Static Product List (Small Catalog): A Data Table displaying a small, unchanging list of products with their names, descriptions, and prices.

• Demo Data: Populating a Data Table or List with sample data to demonstrate how the component looks and behaves.

• Testing Filter Logic: Creating a small, controlled dataset to test filtering and sorting functionality within a Data Table.

• Navigation Menu (Simple): A List component used as a simple navigation menu, where each item's label and URL are entered manually.

• Combobox/Lookup options: A list of static options.

Example: Data Table with Manual Data

1. Add an Avonni Data Table component.

2. Set its "Data Source" to "Manual."

3. The Data Table's properties will now show a table editor.

4. Add columns (e.g., "Product Name" - Text, "Price" - Number, "Description" - Text).

5. Add rows and enter your data directly into the table cells.

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5. Limitations

• Not for Large Datasets: Manually entering data is not practical for large numbers of records.

• Not for Dynamic Data: The data is static. It won't automatically update if the underlying information changes.

• No Connection to Salesforce: The data is stored within the component's configuration, not in Salesforce.

• Maintenance: Updating the data requires manually editing the component's configuration.

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6. Best Practices

• Keep it Small: Use the Manual Data Source only for small, manageable datasets.

• Use for Static Data: Reserve it for rarely or never-changing data.

• Consider Alternatives: For dynamic data, use the Avonni Query Data Source, Picklist Data Source, or Variable resources (populated via "On Load" actions).

• Document Clearly: If you use a Manual Data Source, clearly document its purpose and the data within the component's description or comments. This is important for maintainability.

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In Summary

The manual data source is a simple way to provide static data for your components. Use this data source to create a list of options for your components or any data set that does not change.