Create multiple records in visual workflow using user input

Question

I'm trying to create multiple records in visual workflow. The records will represent merchandise that's booked into warehouses. The page the user will see has some drop-downs and a large text field. Here he can select the warehouse and product name. In the large text box the serial numbers of the merchandise are entered.

The problem I'm trying to solve is that the input from the large text box has to be split split and looped through, creating a new record for every serial number. I have to parse the input (I guess in an action) and pass it back as a collection variable so I can loop.

My question is if this is possible at all? Or is visual workflow not the correct solution for this?

Answer 1

I believe the answer to your question is "yes" because one can do most anything they want with a visual flow. Before they were called "flows" they were referred to as "interviews". This would be no different than looping an "interview process.

You'd probably probably find it helpful if you created a graphic or "mock up" of your page as well as a flow-chart (try giffy) of how you see your visual flow working.

The main question to ask yourself would be, what are the benefits of doing this in a flow vs using an in-line "list" where all records are submitted at once?

There's an example of the type of thing it sounds like you're looking to do in Rakesh Gupta'a Blog in article titled Parsing Dynamic choice Multi-Select Picklist fields (Flow) – Reusable component. Other resources that you may find helpful are the Power of Flow Webinar Series. The Trailhead Process Builder Module also includes a section on Visual Workflow that would be worth your time going through.