To create customized Event Types in EarthRanger, you can use the Data Model Spreadsheet as an alternative to building forms using schemas. Each worksheet within the spreadsheet represents a distinct Event Type and enables you to define specific fields and formatting. Here’s a step-by-step guide on setting up your Data Model Spreadsheet to generate Event Types. 

Steps to Set Up the Data Model Spreadsheet

1. Open the EarthRanger Data Model Spreadsheet  
   In this spreadsheet you will find instructions, examples, values and a blank template to create yours. 
2. Copy the "Blank Template" Worksheet  
   Start by duplicating the 'Blank Template' worksheet to a new sheet. Each worksheet will correspond to one Event Type, such as "Carcass," "Shot Report," or “Wildlife Sighting.”
3. Enter Event Name  
   At the top left of the worksheet, enter the name of the Event Type you are creating. This label will help you identify each worksheet and will become the Event Type’s display name in EarthRanger.
4. Define Fields for the Event Type  
   In the green fields, enter information specific to each field in your Event Type.
   1. Field Name (Required): This is the name displayed in EarthRanger for each field. For example, “Area Damaged (ha).”
   2. Field Type (Required): Choose the data type for each field:
      • Free Text: Allows text or numeric input.
      • Number: Restricts input to numbers, with a default minimum of 0.
      • List of Choices: Provides a dropdown menu of selectable options (defined in "List of Choices" later).
      • Date/Time: Adds a calendar and time selector.
      • Checkboxes: Allows multiple options to be selected from a list.
      • Scrolling Text: Presents a larger text area for more extensive entries.
   3. Section Name (Required): Fields can be grouped into sections, with each section name unique and descriptive. If a Section Name is not necessary, enter "".
   4. Section Column (Required): Specify the field’s layout position:
      • Left Column
      • Right Column
      • Full Width
   5. Choices Order: If using a List of Choices, set the display order of options. You can choose to place options like "Other" or "Unknown" at the bottom if desired.
   6. Choices Override (Advanced): If the field requires a predefined set of options (like "Directions," "Counties," or "Conservancies"), refer to an existing list in the data model.
   7. List of Choices: Define the options for fields with a list of choices. This section will dictate the selectable options presented in EarthRanger.
5. Create Additional Worksheets for Each New Event Type  
   Repeat the above steps in a new worksheet for each additional Event Type required. 

Tips for Organizing and Expanding Your Spreadsheet: 
If you need extra rows to add more choices, insert additional green rows in the “List of Choices” section. 

To accommodate more fields, add green columns as needed. 
This structured approach enables you to streamline Event Type creation while maintaining consistency across EarthRanger event data.

Once you have this information complete make sure to reach out to the Support Team to implement it. 
support@earthranger.com