Database field names are built for computers, not operators. Location parameters like “Aeration Basin 7 Solids TSS” are precise but clunky when you’re staring at a DataView grid. Custom column headers let you display “Basin 7” or “AB7” instead, making the screen easier to scan without changing the underlying database structure.
Why customize headers?
Operators know their plant by shorthand: “Basin 1,” “Influent,” “Effluent.” When DataView columns display full database names, it creates visual clutter and slows down data entry. Custom column headers solve this by letting you label each column the way your crew talks. The database still stores “Aeration Basin 1 Solids TSS” as the location parameter, but your DataView shows “Basin 1.” Every instance of that parameter across all DataViews, reports, and charts still pulls the same data—only this one view shows your custom label.
How to edit a column header
Right-click any column header in your DataView and select Edit Column Header. Type your new label (keep it short: 5-10 characters works best). Click OK. The column updates immediately. Repeat for each column you want to rename. If you’re setting up a new DataView, consider copying frequently used labels to your clipboard to paste across similar columns faster.
Use group headers to organize sections
When you have multiple related parameters—like TSS readings from six aeration basins—group headers add a visual label above those columns. Right-click any column, choose Column Properties, and select all the basin columns at once using Shift+Click. In the right panel, add a Group Header and type “Aeration Basins.” The group label appears above those columns in a larger font, creating a clear section break.
Adjust group header style
After adding a group header, go back to Properties > Font and Color and select Group Header from the dropdown. Increase the font size, make it bold, or change the color to red or blue so it stands out from regular column headers. This visual hierarchy helps operators scan the DataView quickly and find the section they need without reading every label.
Combine headers with inverted display
If you use inverted DataView display (dates on top, parameters on the side), custom column headers become row labels instead. The same editing process applies: right-click the row label, choose Edit Column Header, and type your shorthand. Group headers in inverted mode appear as row section labels on the left side, organizing parameters into logical blocks like “Influent,” “Basins,” and “Effluent.”
Headers don’t affect other DataViews
Renaming a column header in one DataView has zero impact on other DataViews, reports, or the database itself. You can create a “Lab TSS” DataView with shorthand labels like “Inf” and “Eff,” and still have a “Monthly Report” DataView that shows full names. Each view is independent. The only thing that matters is the underlying location parameter stays the same, so all data points to the same database field.
Practical operator tip
When setting up multiple DataViews for different shifts or tasks, use custom column headers to match each team’s vocabulary. Day shift might call it “Primary Clarifier,” night shift might say “PC1.” Create two DataViews with different labels, same data. Operators enter faster when the screen matches the language they use on rounds.
Next Steps: Learn more about Operator10 DataView customization →
