I've linked a sharepoint list (with a Tools column) to create a dynamic variable list in shape data properties. I've imported the external data into visio to expose the data in _VisDM_Tools
In the appropriate shape data Prop.Tools row, I add the =Prop._VisDM_Tools formula which works to provide the variable list in my shape data properties. It works when I've first typed in the formula, but later the formula gets convereted to a string.
If I make copy of the shape, the formula is then quoted: "=Prop._VisDM_Tools", which is then a string literal and not a formula anymore.
If I create a new master shape of the original shape, and then create an instance in the diagram of the master, the formula is not quoted (and works initially) until I save and re-load the file, then it is quoted and any children I create of the master shape have the quoted version of the formula in the cell, and hence don't work. The variable list is simply the "=Prop.VisDM_Tools"
Not sure what I'm missing here. I tried GUARD and that doesn't prevent the cell getting quoted (including the GUARD call).
Any pointers on how to prevent this, or perhaps a hint about the "right" way to create lists for data shape properties from external data would be much appreciated.
Richard
