For automated Update Requests, is it possible to make a field required before submission?

Msamples76711

Hello,

I have created an automated update request that requires the recipient to check a few fields and submit their "findings" via an attachment. I am finding that there's a loophole in this, recipients are able to close out their links and submit (checking off some fields) but not uploading the required document that is needed. Is there a way we can make any field a "required" field (similar to how we can do this on forms) with automated update requests?

I have a total of 77 recipients, in which on a monthly basis, they receive a report from me that requires them to submit their feedback. I have made a note on the request that they are required to upload their findings, but this is not enough. I have to go back and re-send them a link each time they skip adding their attachment with their findings. You can imagine how in-efficient it is to do this 77 times every single month.

If there is no current way to do this, can we submit this as an idea for an upgrade to the existing system please?

Thank you.

:P

Andrée Starå

Hi @Msamples76711

I hope you're well and safe!

Unfortunately, it's not possible now, but it's an excellent idea!

Please submit this as a Product Feedback or Idea (If it hasn't been added already) when you have a moment.

Here's a possible workaround or workarounds

• Add a workflow that sends an update request until everything is filled in/added.

Make sense?

Would that work/help?

I hope that helps!

Be safe, and have a fantastic week!

Best,

Andrée Starå | Workflow Consultant / CEO @ WORK BOLD

✅Did my post(s) help or answer your question or solve your problem? Please support the Community by marking it Insightful/Vote Up, Awesome, or/and as the accepted answer. It will make it easier for others to find a solution or help to answer!

Ric T

Hi @Msamples76711, totally understand the challenges of navigating user compliance on completing forms. I think this is a known limitation but the link to the product "New Idea" may be found here: https://community.smartsheet.com/categories/smartsheet-product-feedback-&-ideas

There is a workaround in another thread I found useful: https://community.smartsheet.com/discussion/87403/if-theres-an-attachment-fill-cell-like-this-if-no-attachment-fill-cell-like-this

This would require you to use automation to identify rows with and without attachments, then either manually follow up with the rows with no attachments, or setup a second automation where If "No" is detected, a second update request will be triggered with a message "Hi {{name}}, we appreciate your recent update request submission. However, we noticed that your request did not include an attachment that is required for the update. Kindly attach the missing file in this update and resubmit it. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding." or words to that effect.

Cheers,

Ric