Announcing Bamboo's Validator Column: Masked inputs never looked so good

Are you familiar with the phrase "Garbage in, garbage out"? If you've ever had to scrub user-entered data, you probably know the meaning of it all too well. Any time you collect data via user input, you run the risk of getting something entered you didn't anticipate. Whether it's letters where there should be numbers, or email addresses with no "@", it's been my experience that whatever can be entered, will be. Why go to all the hassle of collecting and storing data if you aren't sure what you'll be getting?

Wouldn't it be nice to have more control over exactly what data people can/can't put in SharePoint lists? We definitely thought so. That's why we've created the new Bamboo Validator Column. It allows you to create input masks that force users to enter the right kind of data, ensuring you get the kind of data you need. The Bamboo Validator Column lets you apply pattern comparisons (either pre-defined or custom), range comparisons (for numbers or dates), explicit value comparisons, or even compare input to value in another column. If the data being entered doesn't match the rule(s), it can't be saved. You can even write your own error message to let users know exactly what they need to enter. 

Bamboo Validator Column Settings:

But wait! That's not all! Don't let the name fool you. This isn't JUST a new column with validation (as if that weren't enough). You can also apply validation rules to an existing column! In addition to the custom column itself, you'll also get a new option under a list's "Permissions and Management" settings called "Bamboo Form Validation Configuration". This lets you apply the same rules/conditions as you would using the custom column, but to an existing column!

Form Validation:

So, what are you waiting for? Download your free trial now, and start making sure the data you're collecting is worth storing. Bamboo Validator Column is available right now on its own, or as part of the Bamboo Custom Column Pack.