FAQ: Why is my Custom Parameter Not Populating in the Template?
This article answers a common question about Custom Parameters (aka Custom Merge Fields) to ensure they are made available to your templates within Smartwebs.
Here are the most common causes for a custom parameter being unavailable in your Template:
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Confirm the parameter is assigned to the desired Association.
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Ensure the template is being generated within the module where the parameter was created.
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Verify the parameter code is inserted correctly (including
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Why can’t I find my Custom Parameter in the template editor?
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Confirm the parameter was created for the correct module.
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Check that the parameter is assigned to the Association you are working in.
Do I need to recreate a Custom Parameter for each module?
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Yes. Custom Parameters are module-specific and must be created separately for each module where they are needed.
Can I use different values for different Associations?
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Yes. Values can be configured per Association within the Custom Parameter settings.
Can I edit or delete a Custom Parameter after it’s created?
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Yes. You can update the parameter name, description, and values at any time.
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Deleting a parameter will remove it from all templates where it is used.
Best Practices
Use clear, consistent naming conventions
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Use descriptive names (e.g.,
Association Region,Office Phone) -
Avoid vague or duplicate names.
Validate before creating a new parameter
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Check existing parameters to prevent duplicates.
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Reuse existing parameters when possible.
Standardize values where applicable
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Use a default value when the data is consistent across Associations.
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Only configure association-specific values when necessary.
Limit module duplication
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Only create parameters in additional modules if they are actively needed.
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Avoid unnecessary duplication across modules.
Test before broad use
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Insert the parameter into a test template.
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Generate the template to confirm the value populates correctly.
Maintain and audit regularly
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Periodically review parameters for accuracy and relevance.
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Remove unused or outdated parameters to reduce clutter.
For more information, Refer to the full Custom Parameter User Guide