12.1.2.1.1.9.1.1. Gantt Chart – Key Components, Entity Conditions, & Binding Methods

This section of the manual outlines the key components, entity conditions, and binding methods that are integral to the functionality of the Gantt chart control.

There are several key components involved in the creation and utilization of the Gantt chart control.

These components include:

1. Gantt Chart Entity

This entity holds the data for the Gantt chart control. It must meet the specified requirements outlined in the Entity Conditions section.

*This entity is linked to the Gantt chart form, acting as the data source from which information is extracted to populate the control.

2. Gantt Chart Form

This form serves as a platform for entering data into the Gantt chart entity. It allows users to input relevant information, such as task details and scheduling parameters, which are stored in the entity for the Gantt chart control.

3. Main Entity

This entity is linked to the form where the Gantt chart control is being used or implemented. It represents the primary data object that the user is working with or collecting data for.

*In the provided instructions for building these key components, this entity is created using the Quick Forms feature. Users, however, can choose to create the main entity manually.

4. Main Form

This form is where the Gantt chart control is implemented. It provides the overall interface and context for incorporating the Gantt chart functionality.

• To bind the Gantt chart control to the main form, users will need to create a local attribute (as described in the Binding Methods section).

*For more detailed instructions on how to create Gantt chart controls and their associated attributes, click here.

To qualify as a Gantt chart entity, three specific conditions must be met:

1. Start Date/Time

The entity must have a data attribute that represents the start date/time of the corresponding task or activity.

2. End Date/Time

The entity must have a data attribute that represents the end date/time, indicating the completion or deadline of the task.

3. Reference to Self (ParentID)

The entity must have a reference attribute that points to itself. This self-reference is necessary for proper hierarchical organization and visualization of tasks within the control.

*Alternatively, entities can meet the criteria by having a combination of Start Date/Time and Duration or End Date/Time and Duration, in addition to the mandatory requirement of a self-reference.

There are currently three ways by which to bind a Gantt chart control:

1. Using List in Form Entity (Local Attribute)

To bind the control to the form, users must create a local attribute in the Form Entity tab. This local attribute acts as a container or reference to a list of entities that meet the specified conditions outlined in the Entity Conditions section.

!To populate this list, users can write the necessary code either in a pre-form action or within the code of the control itself, making sure to enable the Call at Loading Page option. In the Control Properties window, specifically in the Gantt Chart tab, it is important not to check the Base Info checkbox.

*For more information on how to create a local attribute for this control, click here and navigate to the relevant section.

2. Using All Entities in Table

Users have the option to utilize all entities in a table by enabling the Base Info checkbox in the Control Properties window.

*For more information on how to configure the properties in this window, click here.

3. Using HQL Query

For more advanced scenarios, users can enable the Base Info checkbox and provide a custom HQL query statement in the Control Properties window. This allows users to define specific criteria to retrieve the desired data for the Gantt chart control.