Common Elements Used in Defining and Using ChartFields

Effective Date

When you add a new ChartField value, the system uses the current date as the default date. However, you can enter a date when you want the new value to be active. By using a future date, you can set up a ChartField value without inadvertently using it for processing before your scheduled effective date. Enter the status intended for the ChartField value: active or inactive as of the effective date. (The Project ID ChartField does not have effective-dating but it does include an effective status as of the effective date.)

Description

Identifies the ChartField value on reports, pages, prompt lists, or online inquiries. Enter a short description to appear on pages and drop-down list boxes where display space is limited.

Long Description

Enter long descriptions and provide more extensive information about ChartField values. This is particularly helpful for the public sector when there is a need to input fund names as specified by donors and other sources where particular names and descriptions are required that can be quite detailed and lengthy.