Can I trigger an event when selecting a value from a dropdown list?

MarkFX

Dear all,

I have a column with a dropdown list. At the beginning of a project, the value for each dropdown/task is set to "Not started". As soon as the vale for the first task changes, I would like to change another field's value ([Start Date]1) to today's date. But only if it didn't contain a value yet, so I can use it to calculate the duration of the project. - Any hint or idea would be highly appreciated. Thank you! 😊

Andrée Starå

@MarkFX

I just replicated your workflow, and it works for me.

Can you share some screenshots of the sheet so the columns are visible? (Delete/replace any confidential/sensitive information before sharing) That would make it easier to help.

Also, do you save after you make the change?

Paul Newcome

Sounds like you should be able to use a Record A Date automation with the trigger of the dropdown being changed and a condition of the [Start Date] column being blank.

MarkFX

Thank you Paul! Yes, that sound like what I am looking for. 😀 That already provides me a good basis for further investigation. Thank you! 👍️

MarkFX

Hmmm, unfortunately the automation builder offers me only three of my many columns to assign a change to. I would like to change the value in the "Start Date" column, but it isn't available in the Automation Builder.

And when I am writing this, I am wondering if it will be possible to change only ONE certain field. But I come to that as soon as I figured out why I can't select my "Start Date" column... 🧐

MarkFX

Aha! I had to disable the dependency of my Start date and End Date fields / Date Range Display.

It is still not working,. but I am getting closer...

MarkFX

Nope, Automation does not trigger anything at all; no matter what fields or values or changes I choose. 😐️

Andrée Starå

Hi @MarkFX

I hope you're well and safe!

Ensure that you've checked the Sheet Change Notification Settings box to Include my changes in sheet notifications in your Personal Settings (circle/profile in the lower-left corner).

Did that work/help?

I hope that helps!

Be safe, and have a fantastic week!

Best,

Andrée Starå | Workflow Consultant / CEO @ WORK BOLD

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Paul Newcome

Can you provide a screenshot of the automation?

Paul Newcome

@Andrée Starå Does that setting also affect Record A Date automations?

MarkFX

@Andrée Starå These boxes were checked already.

@Paul Newcome Please find two screenshots of my automation process attached. Thank you!

AddStartDate1.jpg

AddStartDate2.jpg

Andrée Starå

@Paul Newcome

No, it doesn't. I misread the post.

Andrée Starå

@MarkFX

I just replicated your workflow, and it works for me.

Can you share some screenshots of the sheet so the columns are visible? (Delete/replace any confidential/sensitive information before sharing) That would make it easier to help.

Also, do you save after you make the change?

Genevieve P.

Hi team! 🙂

Just jumping in here with one quick clarifying question.

@MarkFX you noted that you want the Start Date to be populated but only if there isn't already a date in the cell, is that correct?

If so, your Condition Block is set for where the Start Date is not blank (instead of IS blank).

Cheers,

Genevieve

Andrée Starå

@Genevieve P.

Good catch!

I tested with a date already filled in.

MarkFX

Dear @Genevieve P. , @Andrée Starå , dear @Paul Newcome , dear all,

I just now understand that I have to save and reload(!) the sheet for the actions to take place.

When I change the status, save the sheet and reload it, the date will be populated where I want it.

I was hoping the action would trigger the event / change of date directly.

OK, now I know. - Thank you very much, Genevieve, Andreé and Paul! 😃 This is an awesome community!

Andrée Starå

@MarkFX

Excellent! Glad we got it working!

You're more than welcome!