Our platform enables you to create dynamic, engaging displays using templates connected to real-time data sources. By linking your template to a data source like RSS feeds, databases, Google Sheets, Excel files, or CSV files, you can ensure that your content stays updated automatically. This guide will walk you through the process of connecting a data source to a template in Comeen Play.
What is a Data Source?
A data source in Comeen Play is any file or database that provides the information to populate your template. Examples include:
Online or Imported Calendar
LumApps
Google Sheets
Excel files
CSV files
Once linked, your data source updates the template dynamically, ensuring the displayed information remains current.
Step 1: Connect a Data Source to Comeen Play
Before using a data source in the Designer, you must connect it to Comeen Play. If you haven't done this yet, follow our detailed guide: How to Connect a Data Source
Step 2: Format Your Data for the Template
Creating the Template
Design your template with placeholders for the data you want to display. Add fake data initially for layout purposes. You will replace this with real data from the source later.
For example, if you want to display two blog articles, include placeholders for dynamic data like:
Title
Link (used for the QR code)
Image
Category
Tip: Click the Save button frequently to avoid losing your progress.
Binding Data to Template Elements
Select an element in your template to bind it to your data source. In the Properties panel, navigate to the Data Source tab and choose your connected source.
Map columns from your data source to the elements in your template. For example:
Column A (Titles) ➔ Title placeholder
Column B (Links) ➔ QR Code
Column C (Images) ➔ Image placeholder
Column D (Categories) ➔ Category text
Note: Use pagination to display multiple rows from the data source. For instance, row 1 populates the first article, row 2 the second article, and so on.
Step 3: Add the Template to Your Playlist
When adding your template to a playlist, specify how many pages to display. Each page corresponds to a new row from your data source.
For example:
Page 1:
Page 2:
Page 3:
With our example, it will look like this:
Page 1
Page 2
Page 3
By following these steps, you can create engaging, automated displays powered by your data. For additional help, visit our Support Center.