How to import data from Repeating form Sharepoint 2010

Question

I have an InfoPath form setup on a Sharepoint List that allows the user to enter multiple Repeating Forms concurrently (so 2 or more entries with the same Submit call).

1. User navigates to the list

2. User clicks "New Item" ->InfoPath opens

3. User fills out a form in its entirety, and then clicks the " Insert Item" button at the bottom left of the filled out form

4. A Repeating Section opens

I'd like there to be a button they could select that would enter data from a previous form, or the previous Repeating Form entry.

It is a lengthy form and there could potentially be 5 or 6 entries per project.

Answer 1

You can always use a secondary data connection to get back items from previously submitted forms, BUT only for columns that you have promoted during publishing. You will need to filter the secondary source using some value in a field on your current form and a rule to trigger it (it doesn't need to necessarily be triggered by a button push). As for the repeating section, you will need to use XPath, some private fields, and some clever string manipulation--it's not for the faint of heart!

Some useful links:

• http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/infopath-help/filter-the-data-that-is-displayed-in-a-control-HA101783367.aspx
• http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms256086.aspx
• http://www.bizsupportonline.net/infopath2007/automatically-populate-repeating-table-infopath-sequential-dates.htm
• http://alecpojidaev.wordpress.com/2010/01/07/accessing-previous-rows-in-repeating-group-for-browser-enabled-forms/