Here are some best practices to ensure that server-side validation errors are prominently displayed in a GridView:
1. Use Data Annotations for Validation
Define validation rules using Data Annotations in your model. This ensures consistency between client-side and server-side validations. For example:
csharp
public class Employee {
[Required(ErrorMessage = “First Name is required”)]
[StringLength(100, MinimumLength = 2)]
public string EmpFirstName { get; set; }
// Other properties…
}
2. Implement Error Handling in Controller Actions
In your controller, validate the model state when processing form submissions. If the model state is invalid, return the errors to the view:
csharp
[HttpPost]
public ActionResult Create(Employee employee) {
if (!ModelState.IsValid) {
return Json(new { success = false, errors = ModelState.ToDictionary(m => m.Key, m => m.Value.Errors.Select(e => e.ErrorMessage).ToArray()) });
}
// Save employee to the database
return Json(new { success = true });
}
3. Display Errors Inline in the GridView
Instead of showing errors in a separate section, display validation messages inline with the relevant fields. This helps users quickly identify and correct errors.
For Kendo UI Grid: Use the Error event to handle server validation errors and display them inline.
javascript
function onError(args) {
var errors = args.errors;
if (errors) {
var grid = $(“grid”).data(“kendoGrid”);
$.each(errors, function (key, value) {
grid.editable.element.find(“[data-valmsg-for='” + key + “‘]”).replaceWith(‘<div class=”error-message”>’ + value.join(“, “) + ‘</div>’);
});
}
}
4. Prevent Closing of Edit Popups on Validation Errors
When using popups for editing, prevent the popup from closing if there are validation errors. This allows users to correct their input without losing context.
javascript
function onError(args) {
if (args.errors) {
args.preventDefault(); // Prevent popup from closing
}
}
5. Highlight Rows with Errors
If multiple rows have validation errors, consider highlighting those rows visually. This can be done by adding a specific CSS class to rows containing errors.
javascript
if (errors) {
$.each(errors, function (key, value) {
// Highlight the row with errors
var row = grid.tbody.find(“tr[data-uid='” + key + “‘]”);
row.addClass(“error-row”);
});
}
6. Provide Clear and Specific Error Messages
Make sure error messages are understandable, precise, and useful. Steer clear of generalizations and offer instructions on how to fix the problem.
By according to these guidelines, you may clearly show server-side validation errors in a GridView, facilitating users’ ability to recognize and fix problems and ultimately enhancing user experience and data quality.
