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Formula

The Formula field is a smart field that performs calculations for you. Instead of manually entering a value, you define an formula using other custom fields (like numbers, currencies, or percentages). Maxilist then computes the result automatically whenever the input values change.

Why and When to Use It?​

The Formula field automates your workflow and ensures data accuracy. It's the perfect tool for:

  • Eliminating Manual Errors: Let the app handle the math, so you don't have to. This ensures consistency and accuracy across all your data.
  • Real-time Calculations: Get instant updates to values like totals, subtotals, or profit margins as soon as you enter the base data.
  • Streamlining Operations: Automatically calculate tax, shipping costs, or total weight, saving you valuable time during inventory updates or audits.

Local vs. Cumulative Formula​

Maxilist supports two types of formulas, offering incredible flexibility:

  • Local Formula: This type of formula calculates a value for a single item. For example, calculating the total price of one item by adding its cost and tax.
    • This type is available for both items and collections.
    • Can reference other formula fields in the same item or collection.
  • Cumulative Formula: This formula calculates a value based on a group of items within a collection. This is perfect for generating totals like the total value of all items in a collection or the total weight of a shipment.
    • This type is available only for collections.
    • Can only use item fields for collection formulas like SUM or AVG.

How to Create or Edit a Formula Field​

Follow instructions in the Custom Fields guide. Then:

  1. Define Your Formula: An intuitive formula builder will appear. Here, you can select other custom fields to use in your formula and apply mathematical operators like addition (+), subtraction (-), multiplication (*), and division (/). Or apply functions like SUM, AVG, MIN, MAX, and COUNT.

Real-World Examples​

For a Retailer​

You want to know the total cost of a product after tax.

  • Custom Fields: Price (Currency), Tax Rate (Percent)
  • Formula Field Name: Total Cost
  • Formula: [Price] + ([Price] * [Tax Rate])

For a Warehouse Manager​

You need to calculate the total value of a collection of items.

  • Custom Fields: Item Price (Currency), Quantity (Number)
  • Formula1 Field Name: Item Value
  • Formula2 (Local): [Item Price] * [Quantity]
  • Formula2 Field Name: Collection Value
  • Formula2 (Cumulative): SUM([Item Value])

For a Contractor​

You need to calculate the total square footage of flooring in a room.

  • Custom Fields: Length (Number), Width (Number)
  • Formula Field Name: Total Area (sq ft)
  • Formula: [Length] * [Width]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)​

Can I use text fields in a formula?​

No, formulas can only be created using numerical custom fields, such as Number, Currency, and Percent fields.

Can I manually edit the value in a Formula field?​

No. The value in a Formula field is automatically generated by the formula you defined. To change the result, you must edit the values in the fields used in the formula.

What if I change a field used in a formula?​

Maxilist will instantly and automatically recalculate the formula's value as soon as you update any of the input fields.