Map Values Example for Expression Configuration

You can use the Map Values field on the Expression Configuration for Auto Numbering dialog box to map values for lookups, drop-down lists, check boxes, and the current month and year.

When you map values, you create a relationship between data so that the mapped value is substituted for the value entered in a field. This enables better customization of automatic numbering to match your business requirements.

For example, assume that you want to generate the first two characters of your employee’s automatic number based on the employee's regional location in the United States: Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, or Southwest.

To do so, you complete the following actions:

1. On the Expression Configuration for Auto Numbering dialog box, select EM.State as an Item
2. Set the Length Used in Number field to 2.
3. Click the Map Values column and then click the ellipsis icon to open the Mapped Values dialog box.
4. In the Value in DPS column, insert the states Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.
5. Set the Value for Use in Number to NE for all.
6. Complete the same steps for the states of Florida, Alabama, North Carolina, and South Carolina, but set the Value for Use in Number as SE.
7. Save your changes. When the auto number is generated, the first two numbers are based on the employee's regional location.