Form API tag library

Corporate Interactive have been in web and software development for a long time, and over this time we have built up a large number of software libraries. By using existing libraries such as these, we can develop complex business applications in a very rapid fashion because we are using tried and tested methods which we have built from the ground up.

The Form API is one such library. It allows us to develop complex online forms, which could potentially take weeks, in just a matter of hours. Some of the core components of the Form API include:

• Validators - If form fields are mandatory, have a maximum length, are a currency value, or must only contain alpha numeric values, we can add these constraints with a single word. The Form API comes with over 12 standard validators, but is easily extensible to contain any custom validation that may be required.

• Cross Element Dependencies - It is in the nature of complex business forms to require changing rules and algorithms depending on which path a user takes. The Form API allows you to create varying rules and validation based on user input, which is all automatically applied without the users knowledge.

• Dynamic Data Connectivity - When using the Form API in conjunction with our WebDirector product, connecting form input fields to database fields is as easy as adding an extra word to the element definition. So whether the form is being used to insert, edit, read, or delete data, fields can be linked to data items in just a few keystrokes.

• Professional, Quick, and Secure - In order to provide the best user experience, without compromising security, the Forms API uses both Ajax and server side scripts when performing validation. This means that user input can be validated quickly and be informed of any validation issues in a professional looking manner but also provides absolute server side validation in the event that the client side validation fails.

• Spell Checking - The Forms API comes with a built-in spell checker, which is built around Google's spell checking facilities. Any field can be added to the spell check list by simply adding a class to the element, and it automatically suggests correct spellings for any misspelt words.

The Form API can turn the development of complex applications from weeks into hours, and allows us to develop without the fear of introducing bugs or glitches into the system. It is completely extensible, and can be customised to fit just about any business requirement.