Field Changes
MLSs make changes to their database fields in Flexmls almost daily. Even though these changes are common, they should always be considered carefully.
This topic contains an overview of different types of field changes and their potential impact. MLS administrators who are comfortable with the system can make low-impact changes without intervention from FBS. For high-impact field changes, we recommend that you contact the Flexmls Customer Success team (cpr@flexmls.com) for assistance.
Note
This topic does not contain a comprehensive list of all possible changes. If you have questions about a potential change or you are not comfortable making a change yourself, please contact the Flexmls Customer Success team.
Why Are Field Changes a Big Deal?
Changes to listing entry fields can also affect historical listings, saved searches, RETS and IDX feeds, and MLS data shares. Properly planned changes will have a minimal impact on your members and data recipients. Poorly planned changes can cause disruptions. The following are just a few of the considerations when making a field change.
Industry Standards: Field names should comply with RESO recommendations, where possible.
Data Format: Select a field of the correct data type and use only the space you need.
Consistency: If fields are not consistent, cross-property searches and cross-MLS searches (if your MLS shares data with other MLSs) may not work.
Data Integrity: Fields should be set up in a way that helps users enter correct and consistent data. For example, a list of options will result in cleaner data than an open text field.
Data Conversion: If you change a field that has been in use, data may need to be moved or deleted.
Data Distribution: If you change a field that is distributed to outside recipients via RETS or API, you will want to give proper notice of the changes to avoid disruptions.
Field Changes You Can Make
The following types of changes do not usually require a data conversion or RETS notice. The MLS administrator can make these changes.
Change a field's confidentiality
Add an item to a list
Modify the Description for a list item (not the Value)
Change the position of a field within its group
Change "Display on Search" setting
Change "Display on Add/Edit" setting
Add a checkbox (Yes/No) field to an existing Detail group
When to Get Help with Field Changes
The following types of changes can require data updates or notification to data recipients. Depending on your MLS settings, some field settings may be read-only and can only be changed by FBS. Contact Customer Success (cpr@flexmls.com) to make field changes to any read-only field settings.
Add a new field
Delete a field
Rename a field
Change a field's data type (for example, from List to Text)
Change the Value for a list item (OK to change the Description)
Delete an option from a list
Add, remove, or rename a field group
Move a field to a different group
How to Get Help with Field Changes
Contact the Flexmls Customer Success team for help with field changes. When requesting a field change, provide as much information as you can upfront. Be as clear as possible about the desired end result. The best way to begin is to fill out a Field Change Request form.
The Field Change Request form helps ensure that you are providing the answers to the most important questions. If your request is more complex and involves multiple fields, contact the Flexmls Customer Success team for a form that can accommodate those changes.
All field change requests require written approval from an authorized administrator of your system.
The time it takes to complete your request will vary based on the size and complexity of the change, required data updates, and whether custom programming must be implemented.