Create a read-only item

Create a read-only item for values that site users can see but not edit.

Typically, in a form you first create questions with an editable answer and then include a read only item. Site users first answer these questions, and their answers are then used to generate a value and populate the read only field with data. For example, you can create a read only item for the Body Mass Index (BMI) and automatically calculate its value. First, you need to create two editable items for Height and Weight, and then add the BMI as a read only item. You then set up a rule to calculate the BMI using the values entered by the site user for Height and Weight, and populate the read only field with the result.

You must first create a form. For step-by-step instructions on how to create various types of forms, see Forms.

To create a read-only item:

1. On the form, click Add Question, and select a type of question.
2. On the right, expand the Details pane and enter a reference code for the form.
   A reference code is a one-word abbreviation for the form.
3. Make sure the following toggles () are turned on, according to your needs. toggle () is turned on.
   • Required: To make the item required for the screening, randomization, or dispensation of kits to a subject.
   • Read Only: To make the item read-only.

   Figure 8-2 Figure 2-4 How to mark an item as read only

   
4. If you want to hide the item, so site users no longer see it, turn on the Hidden toggle ().

   Note:

   A hidden question or item can also be required in a form, so the Required toggle remains switched on. However, we recommend you switch off the Required toggle when hiding a question from a site user, so the visit status is not dependent on the completion of the question. For example, a coding question that can be populated by a coding application, if hidden, is not populated until the coding scheduled job is run.
5. To configure data classifications for a hidden question, see Classify a hidden question.
6. To configure source data verification settings at a question level, see Configure source data verification settings.
7. Expand the Advanced pane and make sure the SAS properties are correctly defined for both the SAS Variable and SAS Label fields.
8. To create a validation rule, see Set up a validation rule for a question.
9. To save the form, in the lower right of the form, click Save.

   Tip:

   If the Save button is disabled, make sure there are no blank questions on the form.
10. Create a rule for a calculated value to automatically generate the value for the read-only field.