Using the Tool

Note

When you open the tool, the window (console) below will pop up and begin running. Do not close it. Once it executes, the tool will open. You will need to leave this window open when you are using the tool.

Note: The screenshot above shows the Windows console. The Mac console will look slightly different.

When the tool loads, it will look like this (Windows):

Tabs

The tabs within the tool are organized sequentially vertically to walk through the steps of data packaging (shown in reverse order here due to horizontal orientation): Data Package, Experiment Tracker, Resource Tracker, Results Tracker, and Data Dictionary.

Within each of these tabs, there are 2-3 sub-tabs. Each has an "Info" tab, which provides information on what the app will create within the selected step. Depending on which domain you are viewing, the additional tabs will vary. Each individual tab will provide the necessary forms and guidance to execute the steps for that domain.

Tool Messages and Guidance

Working Data Package Directory

The Working Data Package Directory will always be displayed at the top of the tool's main window. Each time you open the data packaging tool, you will first need to set your working data package directory (e.g., provide the path to your existing data package directory). This will enable the tool to interface with the data package folder during your session.

For information on how to set your working data package directory, continue to the Data Package tab.

User Status Message Box

Within each tab, there is a User Status Message Box:

The User Status Message Box will print out messages when you make certain selections or save changes to files (e.g., adding a result to a Results Tracker). The box will provide information on the status of changes and any errors that may occur. It will also provide helpful tips on next steps. This is another tool meant to help you through the process, so we advise you to review the messages and use the tips provided.

Guide to Text Colors

Color	Form Fields	User Status Message Box
Blue	Required, but will be filled in by an automatic process	Information on next steps
Green	Required	Successful process message
Black	Not required, but useful to include	Process message
Red	N/A	Error message