InfoPath Dev

I have an infopath form that will be integrating with sql server and Sharepoint. I need to base my main data connection on two tables which means when I add or modify records, it needs to be done to the two tables. I have it working at the moment just using a database connection.

When do I need to use a web service?

Most documentation I have read talks about using a web service for what I am doing, but I can't find any examples of how to set up a web service send and receive with 2 tables. All examples use 1 table.

I am a little worried that I have based everything on a database connection instead of a web service. Is this a problem?

The form needs to work offline with offline submitting an option.

Thanks in advance for your knowledge!

Jo

Hi Jo,
This is difficult to do without writing code because of the limits of the data connection wizard. The Database Adapter that we sell (and provide free for download) is an example of a Web service that supports multiple tables and requires no code in the form.

I think the main benefit of the Web service is the abstraction that it provides. But, hey, if your form is working, why worry!?

For offline, I imagine that you already have it working, but consider caching locally in the main DOM until people are ready to submit.

Good luck!

Patrick Halstead [InfoPath MVP]
InfoPathDev

I don't have it working offline. That's my challenge at the moment. Can you explain the easiest way to do it? The user needs to be able to fill out the form while disconnected (1 or many forms) and then once re-connected, have them submit automatically.

How do I cache locally in the main DOM until people are ready to submit?

Thanks for your help Patrick!

Jo

Hi again,
Well, InfoPath has great offline support. If yor database connections happen OnLoad, then it should just work so long as the form was opened when they were connected. If they need to have data prepopulated to the dropdowns when they are disconnected, then you'll have to provide a secondary data source (add a XML file data connection) that includes the default data. You can then write code in your OnLoad to check connectivity and either fill in from DB or secondary data source.

Patrick Halstead [InfoPath MVP]
InfoPathDev