This article discusses the Style Classes section of the General Info Tab, for information on the Style Classes, or how to create Style Classes, please see Style Classes Tab.
The Style Classes section, located within the General Info tab of the Data Object Editor, allows users to apply predefined formatting to data outputs. These style settings help enforce consistency in visual presentation and can override formatting defined in the PowerPoint (PPTX) templates.
The Style Classes feature is used to:
- Apply a consistent look to text and data values within generated documents.
- Override formatting inherited from the PPTX, ensuring the Data Object adheres to specific style preferences.
- Support conditional formatting when paired with appropriate logic.
How It Works #
- The Default Class field allows users to select a style class defined in the Style Classes tab of the same Data Object.
- By default, Default Class is set to “None”, and no styles are applied.
- If style classes have been created, they will appear in a dropdown menu for selection.
- Once selected, the style class is applied to the output, overriding any existing formatting in the linked PPTX template.
When to Use Style Classes #
Use Style Classes when:
- The styling (e.g., font type, size, color) will not change over time.
- Specific conditional formatting is needed based on data values.
- You want to standardize visual presentation within a given Data Object or across related outputs.
Brand Themes vs. Style Classes #
While Style Classes are useful for fixed or conditional formatting, use Brand Themes when:
- You need to maintain a flexible, organization-wide brand identity.
- Fonts, colors, and design elements might change periodically.
- You want changes in branding to automatically apply to all content without modifying individual Data Objects.
Best Practices #
- For long-term consistency and ease of updates, prefer Brand Themes if there’s any chance of branding updates.
- Use Style Classes for specific, stable formatting needs where brand-related changes are not expected.
- Always review formatting in the generated document to ensure the style class behaves as intended.