Importing data with existing envelope numbers

[RANDYB]

I'm giving OSC a whirl and would like to import data with existing envelope numbers. How can this best be done?

I'd suggest a change in the way that envelope numbers are assigned. In our church we have unassigned, but numbered, envelope sets available for giving to new members. As such, I'd like to be able to simply key in the assigned envelope number for a person. If a duplicate envelope number is entered, an error should be reported. For churches which don't have this method perhaps a checkbox with something like "Assign next available envelope number" might be used when adding a new member.

[Steve McAtee]

Hi Randy,

We are in the process of doing a massive rewrite of the ChMS.  I'd add your feature for envelope numbers to the rewrite.

For now.  Are you familiar with MySQL or MS Access.  The envelope numbers can be modified in the per_person table after an individual is created.  You should be able to go thru your list and assign the envelope number you desire.  But it will take some SQL knowledge.

Steve

[RANDYB]

Thanks, Steve.

Yes I can use a SQL tool to modify the data behind the scenes.

Just curious about the rewrite. Do you have a documented list of planned changes or the new feature set yet? Any idea of timeframe?

I'd like to convert our church from using Parish Data Systems' older DOS/Windows application. My main concerns are around the efficiency of entering weekly envelope contributions and reporting. I'm not really concerned with the family/individual tracking capabilities. In your online demo, it looked like there's some Ajax in use to lookup the family/individual associated with an envelope. Is that correct? If not, any plans in that direction?

Thanks,

Randy

[Steve McAtee]

Randy,

The rewrite is concentrating on migrating the app as is.  We will start adding functionality after the initial migration. 

No Ajax, just smart JavaScript.  We have no plans of implementing major Ajax code into the system.

If you would like any specific requests/enhancements.  Please go to the feature requests of Tracker for OSC on SourceForge.  That is the best place to get a request out there and make sure it does not fall thru the cracks.

Steve

[RANDYB]

Thanks, Steve.

I might have missed the intended purpose of the rewrite on the forums. Is this for PHP 5 related issues, code restructuring, design/display changes, or something else?

Regards,

Randy

[Steve McAtee]

Hi Randy,

We are converting the application to the Xoops CMS framework (xoops.org).  This is a framework that provides for security, standard integration procedures.  It brings hundreds of programmers to the table and gives OSC a bigger audience.

Stay tuned for more.