In the last chapter, we worked on implementing a solid model layer for the application. While the console and unit tests are a fine way for developers to access the models, they are not a suitable interface for the intended users of the system (Acme administrative staff). This chapter describes how to build a web interface onto the models we have developed, including:

• A walk-through of creating a controller from scratch
• How to use views, layouts, and helpers
• Using pagination
• Linking views together to create drill-downs
• Adding style-sheets
• Writing custom helpers and partials
• Writing complex controller actions to update multiple models simultaneously
• Fleshing out the application functionality

By the end of the chapter, we will have a basic, fully-functional web-based CRM application.

Chapter 5: Building the User Interface Controllers and Views: A Recap Creating a Simple Controller and Its Views Views and Layouts Adding a View to the Application Displaying Model Instances in a View Pagination Linking to Another View Adding a Layout Adding a Stylesheet Adding a Controller for Companies Create the CompaniesController Create the Index View Test It! Summary Advanced View Techniques Custom Helpers Default Messages for Empty Fields Date Formatting Showing Associated Records Refining Using a Helper Showing an Address with a Partial Rendering Pagination Links with a Partial Adding a Menu C*UD (Create, Update, Delete) Creating a Person Refining with a Helper Validation Errors The Flash Finishing Touches Updating a Person Opportunities for Refactoring Using Filters Creating Application-Level Controller Methods Deleting a Person Adding Edit and Delete Links to a Person's Profile Editing Multiple Models Simultaneously Adding a New Address for a Person Using Functional Testing for Complex Actions Updating a Person and Their Address Summary Fleshing Out Companies and Addresses Managing Companies Stubbing Out the Navigation A Shared View to Confirm Deletions Attaching a Person to a Company Creating and Updating Companies Managing Addresses Adding a Callback to Company Deletions A Very Quick Interface for Addresses Summary

Paperback 528 pages Released: October 2007 ISBN: 1847190855 ISBN 13: 978-1-847190-85-7

View the book details on PacktPub.com