How do I change the top value name in a text box on a Cognos Report?

Question

The default value for the first item in a drop down list is the name of the database field. I need to change it to a more user friendly name. How do I change the value?

Answer 1

add a HTML Item onto the prompt page and add the following as an HTML item:

Example: <script> document.formWarpRequest._oLstChoicesMyList[0].text = '--SELECT A CITY--'; </script>

Replace 'MyList' with the name of the component.

from: link text

Answer 2

In Cognos 10, you can specify prompt text of your choice in Report Studio.

1. Select the value prompt
2. In Properties pane, under 'Prompt Text' section, the 'Header Text' property will be set to Automatic. Click the ellipsis button next to it and Header Text Dialogue opens.
3. Select 'Specified Text' choice. Click ellipsis.
4. Provide the text of your choice and click ok.
5. Run the report and you will see text that you provided will appear as first item in the drop down list.

I have provided a Screen shot for a better understanding.