Using VDMLists to Filter Data in a View

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Article Goal

Explain how to use a VDMList—a saved list of filter values—in a VDM View to streamline filtering processes and support reusable, consistent filter logic.

What Is a VDMList?

A VDMList is a plain text file containing a list of values that can be referenced in a filter condition within VDM. Instead of manually selecting multiple values for a filter, you can use a VDMList to apply a large or reusable list quickly.

Example: A VDMList might contain a list of Employee IDs, Order Dates, or Customer Names.

Tip: VDMLists are especially useful when:

• You frequently filter by long lists of values.

• You want consistent filtering across multiple Views.

• You need to dynamically update filter values without modifying the View itself.

Steps to Use a VDMList in a Filter

Step 1: Open or Create a View

• Launch VDM

• Open an existing View or create a new one as needed

Step 2: Access the FSGS Tab

• Navigate to the FSGS tab inside the Query Builder

• This is where filters are applied using field logic

Step 3: Add a Field and Set the Operator

• Add a field you want to filter on (e.g., EmployeeID)

• Set the operator to is any of to allow multi-value matching

Step 4: Add a Saved List

• Click the dropdown for the filter value

• Select Add Saved List

Step 5: Choose Your VDMList

• Browse to select the appropriate list file

• VDMLists are typically located in your system’s VDMLists directory

Note: Ensure your list is in the correct format. Each value should appear on a separate line.

Step 6: Run the View

• Click Run View to execute the query using the saved list as your filter

If the list is correctly formatted and applied, the View will return results matching any values from the VDMList.

Article Summary

VDMLists are powerful tools for applying multi-value filters to Views using external text files. By assigning these lists to fields using the is any of operator, users can simplify filtering, reuse logic across Views, and reduce manual input errors. They are ideal for scenarios where filter values change frequently or are maintained outside of VDM.

Use Case: Instead of manually entering 50 Employee IDs into a filter, load them from a VDMList maintained by HR, and reuse that list across multiple reports.