Data validation “Other” generates invalid formula when selecting range (Desktop 9.3.1.8)

Created this with the AI bot but seemed right ot me except a few edits**

Product / Version:**
ONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors, Community version 9.3.1.8 (x64 MSI) on Windows 11

Description:
When using Data validation with type “Other” and selecting a range using the picker, the editor generates a formula that is not a valid logical expression, so the rule is effectively invalid.

Steps to reproduce:

  1. Open a spreadsheet in Desktop Editors.
  2. Select any cell (e.g. A1).
  3. Go to Data → Data validation.
  4. Set Type to Other.
  5. Click the range selector and select cells E10:F17.
  6. Confirm the dialog.

Actual result:

  • The condition field is filled with =$E$10:$F$17.
  • This is not a valid logical (TRUE/FALSE) expression for a custom validation rule.
  • The UI makes it look like this is a valid rule, but it doesn’t work as expected.

Expected result:

  • Either:
    • It should tell me to use list not “other”
    • “Other” should require/enforce a logical formula and warn if the user enters only a bare range; or ( or be called logic formula or similar)
    • The range picker in “Other” should be clearly indicated as “Insert reference into custom formula”; or
    • The product should help convert the selection into a valid expression or guide the user (e.g. =COUNTIF($E$10:$F$17, A1) > 0).

Additional info:

  • I initially used “Other” because I could select a range and expected behavior similar to a “List” rule
  • I later found that List is the correct type for “values from a range”, but the “Other” behavior is confusing to a new user like me

Hello @DonnerWolfBach

I suppose you are referring to Allow > Other.

According to the name of the Formula field it should be clear that it requires a formula as an input. I may assume that you suggest adding something like a hint when an incorrect range or value is selected, is that correct? If I am mistaken, please provide more context.

Yeah a hint that while =$D$7:$D$10 is selectable via the button on the right of the formula field, it does not make sense here and that list is likely what is meant.

For context: I am not familiar with spreadsheets in general

Thank you for the feedback. I have forwarded your suggestion to make a description of the warning better, i.e. add some information what should be referenced in the field, to the QA team to review. Please await my reply on that.

We have added your suggestion to the bug tracker, its number is 81476. You’ll get a notification once it is implemented.