Protocols allow you to create a streamlined process for your team members to interact with a single input parameter for replicates without exposing the underlying keys in the map.
The video below expands on topics covered in the following articles, we recommend reading these first.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Defining the Protocol:
Add a step to your protocol.
Navigate to the first element in your protocol.
Locate the first desired parameter (e.g. replicates) and add only the value, not the key, to the protocol step by clicking on the check box in the right-hand parameters panel. (See here for more detail on hiding map keys)
Similarly, go to the second element in your protocol.
Locate the desired parameter of a matching type (e.g. replicates) and add only the value as above.
Linking Parameters:
On the left-hand side of your interface, find the new step created with the added parameters.
Use the checkboxes to link the replicate parameters from both elements.
This will create a single input parameter for replicates that is shared between both elements.
Verifying Parameter Configuration:
Review the replicates parameter to ensure that it is correctly set up to link the values without exposing the keys.
Click “Next” to navigate to the protocol personalization window.
Validate that a single replicate value field is exposed without an editable map key.
Conclusion
By following these steps, this method enhances the usability of your protocol by simplifying the input process and safeguarding the integrity of the map keys.