How to create multiple record layout when data merging in Master Pages in InDesign

[gracec37259139]

I'm trying to retail updatable data by creating the data merge on the master page. I would like to create a multiple record layout of the group data field (for example label box 9 up on master page), but the option to do multiple record layout is greyed out. Does anyone know of a way to create multiple data instead of single pages? Also, Can you have multiple updatable data sources for different sections of the document i.e. different date for sections in a brochure for example? 

[John Mensinger]

Working backwards:

"Can you have multiple updatable data sources for different sections of the document i.e. different date for sections in a brochure for example?"

No. Data Merge is very much a one-off operation in most ways. Even your notion of "updatable" is limited in concept, in that an updated data source doesn't necessarily update a merge document—more like it facilitates a new instance of merge, resulting in a new merge document.

"Does anyone know of a way to create multiple data instead of single pages?"

Yes, to make your 9-up scenario, you'd have to start a new, single-page document and set up the first of the 9 instances at a size that will fit on the page 8 more times.

Then when you choose Create Merged Document, InDesign will identify that there is space on the page for a Multi-Record Layout, and the Multi-Record Layout tab will become available, allowing you to control the margins, columns, and spacing of the 8 additional instances InDesign will automatically generate and polulate with the next 8 records. Additional pages will also be automatically generated, as many as needed to accommodate the number of records in the data source.

[gracec37259139]

I've tried your advice. I've left plenty of space for multiples on the master page, but it's still not allowing me to do multiple record layout. Is there something else that i should be looking out for? 

[John Mensinger]

Are you choosing it on the Records tab? Or, is that where you're finding it unavailable?

[gracec37259139]

Yes, it finally worked with when I changed the document setup to be single pages only. Before, I had only deleted the second page in the master. 

Basically, is there a good way to create updatable text fields for an education brochure with a large number of course information (grouped text fields) and different course types (in different brochure sections)? The client wants a robust system where they can update the information from CSV file in the future.

Thanks!

[John Mensinger]

" I have a double page spread in the masters. Will this stop me from being able to record multiple layout on the Master pages?"

Yes.

[gracec37259139]

Could you tell me if there’s a good way to save updatable data on multiple spreads? Or is there a plug in that I need?

[Colin Flashman]

Multiple record data merge is a feature that I try to avoid unless I absolutely have no alternative. I've written an article about it on my blog that features how it works, along with some pain points that it can present: https://colecandoo.com/2013/12/28/data-merge-multiple-record-madness/

[gracec37259139]

Thanks Colin. I agree with you as I’m discovering this function. I’ve convinced my client to purchase a catalog plug in the future.

[SJRiegel]

Do you hae a single page master, or a double-page one? How many pages are in your docuemnt? 
A double-page master or a document that has with more than one page will result in Multiple Record being grayed out. 

[gracec37259139]

Great, thanks for your help with this. I have a double page spread in the masters. Will this stop me from being able to record multiple layout on the Master pages? 

Basically, is there a good way to create updatable text fields for an education brochure with a large number of course information (grouped text fields) and different course types (in different brochure sections)? The client wants a robust system where they can update the information from Excel in the future.

Thanks

[joet082964]

Have you looked at data/catalog plugins? I think you could try demos of each.

InData and InCatalog – emsoftware.com

EasyCatalog – 65bit.com

LiveMerge and Extreme – cacidi.com

Designmerge – meadowsps.com

Datalinker - teacupsoftware.com