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How to Select a Field Population Method

CA Identity Manager provides four methods for populating field options:

When selecting a method, consider the following criteria:

Method

Description

Dynamic?

Supports Dependent Fields?

Simple Lists

Administrators enter static options in the field properties dialog.

No

No

Select Box Data

A static list of options is imported to a database from an XML file, which can be generated dynamically. 

Yes. The options in dependant fields can change, based on selected values.

Yes, for hierarchical fields only

JavaScript

A JavaScript function provides a dynamic list of options. The JavaScript is configured in the field properties dialog. This server-side JavaScript may access any Java APIs available on the application server that hosts CA Identity Manager.

Yes

No

Logical Attribute Handler

A custom Java Logical Attribute Handler provides a dynamic list of options. An administrator writes the Logical Attribute Handler using the CA Identity Manager Logical Attribute API, and then configures the CA Identity Manager environment to use the Logical Attribute Handler. The administrator then associates the field with the logical attribute.

Yes

No