Type

CIDOC documentation: E55 Type

Types are used to add information or group entities. They are hierarchical and can be accessed and edited via the Types Menu item. With this feature the user interface can be adapted for specific research interests.

• Types can be added dynamically in forms (with at least editor permission) with basic information like name, description and super type

• The root type description is shown in forms as a mouse over text at the i icon

• Untyped entities can be checked at the type overview

• Multiple linked entities can be checked at the type overview, useful if switching to single

• Types (except value types) can be Set unselectable, e.g. to enter sub categories, via the corresponding button at a type view. But only if not already used by entities and at least editor permissions are needed.

• A more detailed description on how to enter new types can be found here

Standard types

Standard types are already present in the default installation with a few examples.

• Cannot be deleted or renamed (but subtypes of them can)

• Are single select only

• In forms they appear with a Type label

• Are displayed in entity tables

Custom types

Custom types can be created, deleted and renamed. The default installation comes with one example custom type Sex which is used for actor.

• Can be set to allow single or multiple choices

• Can be used for multiple classes, e.g. a hierarchy “case study” for places, actors and events

If you want to change an existing multiple type to single but the multiple checkbox is greyed out and not selectable it means that at least one entity already used multiple. You can check these entries at the type overview at multiple linked entities.

Value types

Value types can be created, deleted and renamed. The default installation comes with an example value type Dimensions with the sub types Height and Weight which are used in the form for artifacts.

• Can be used for multiple classes

• Values can be entered as decimals in forms

Form fields

• Name

• Description

• Reference System

• Date

• A super (type) if it is a sub type of another type

Can be linked via tabs to

• Reference

• File

Making types required

It is possible making specifying of types required. This can be done at the type overview in the right information display of the respective type by users who have at least manager permissions.

Be careful with making types required, especially when there are users who aren’t permitted to create new ones. It may put them in an awkward situation at data entry and, as a result, may even reduce the data quality.

Also keep in mind, that existing entries which haven’t set this type, will than not be possible to update, without setting the required type.