Can I reference an uploaded file in a custom rule?

Yes, you can. However, you can only reference the File Upload item as a variable for rule programming. You cannot include it as a calculation target.

Tip:

Due to the unique nature of this question type, place your cursor in the question above or to the left of the upload question and use the Tab key until the question is highlighted. You can also place the cursor in the question to the right or below and use Shift+Tab on your keyboard. After that, expand the Rules sidebar on the the right of the screen.

If a document is uploaded for a File Upload item, its title is returned in the custom rule. If no document is uploaded, the variable indicates a null value.

If you want to learn more about uploaded documents, see the following:
  • Upload or delete documents from forms in the Site User Guide
  • Guidelines for uploaded documents in a study in the Sponsor and CRO User Guide
  • The Rules report in the Reporting Guide. When you configure a custom rule that includes a File Upload item as a variable, data associated with that item is displayed across all applicable columns in the report. The name of the uploaded file is specifically displayed on the Target Question column.

Parent topic: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)