When a directory server is created in the Metatude Project Manager, custom attributes can be assigned to each field of the directory server. These custom attributes can be used in dialogues. The functionality is similar to the custom attributes in invitation and reminder e-mails.
Custom attributes can be inserted in each part of the dialogue. For example, a custom attribute can be placed in the preface, the question text, the answer text or the epilogue. These tags are replaced with the particular value in the database for the respondent. If the respondent comes from a database where this custom attribute has not been defined, this value is left blank. You can insert custom attributes by entering the name of the attribute between brackets. The custom attribute tags will appear in blue on your screen.
For example, if a custom attribute called 'Function' is defined, then you can include the value of this attribute in a dialogue by placing the text <FUNCTION> in the appropriate place. This tag will be replaced by the value that is in the database for each respondent. You can ask such questions as 'Do you enjoy working as a <FUNCTION>?'. If the database contains the value 'Web Designer' for a particular respondent, then the question that will be asked is: 'Do you enjoy working as a Web Designer?'.
Figure 2: Custom attribute in a dialogue