Formula Validation

Why a Formula Validation

A formula validation provides more flexibility than a simple validation. Rather than always presenting the same fixed list, a formula validation lets the list of valid options change dynamically, depending on the value of another cell or the current dimension context.

Formula validations utilise the MODLR formula system.

Creating a Formula Validation

Consider a cube with a Scenario dimension, where the set of valid months should differ depending on whether the current Scenario is Actual or Budget.

The "Time by Scenario" hierarchy contains two parents: one grouping "Actual Months" and one grouping "Budget Months".

In the workview, open the Validation tab on the workview to configure a rule against the Time Mapping measure. Instead of selecting a fixed list, this time the rule is defined using the Formula field, referencing the Scenario dimension to determine which parent's children should be valid.

Once saved, switching the Scenario context changes the list of valid options presented at data-entry:

The validated string measure now displays a dropdown list of Months scoped to the current Scenario.