FAQ Overview

General

I just registered, where is my serial number?

Serial numbers are sent immediately after your payment has been received. If you do not receive an email you should make sure the email you have assigned to your PayPal or eSellerate account is up to date.

You should also check your email SPAM folder or filters. You can retrieve your serial number from the Retrieve Serial Number link.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-01-02 20:58


Why is OfficePool so expensive? Also, if I purchased OfficePool last year, do I have to pay again?

OfficePool is a program which can manage anywhere from 100 to 10,000+ brackets. Having your pool participants cover the cost of the software is not unusual, and is in fact encouraged. If you choose to do this, the cost of the software is 15¢ per person for a pool of 100 people and is 1.5¢ for a pool with 1,000.

As for the second question, the answer is yes ... unless you choose to use an older version and update all the tournament teams, abbreviations and records manually. In addition, you will not be able to use the Web Entry Form unless you are hosting the form and the form processing scripts.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2021-02-21 17:54


How often will the actual tournament results be updated? (i.e. When I click on the downloads results button sometimes the latest results do not show up)

The men's NCAA and NIT brackets will be updated within 10 minutes of each game's ending. The women's NCAA bracket will be updated 1-3 times each day, depending on the round. If they are not updated as fast as you'd like you can always make a couple clicks on 'The Results' bracket to update them manually.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-19 16:09


How do I upload my web report files to my ISP?

Typically you would use an FTP client. There are literally hundreds of these clients, some free and some paid. If you pay, make sure you get one that allows you to mount the drive so that you can use OfficePool's auto-update feature. (Mountain Duck is one such client)

Here is a search for "Free FTP clients for macOS"

 

If you want a free way to mount SFTP you can follow these steps:

1) Create a 'ftp_mount' folder on the Desktop
2) Open the Terminal app
3) Run the following sshfs** command (updated with your SFTP credentials):

sshfs username@ftp_server:path_to_files ~/Desktop/ftp_mount/ -o defer_permissions -o volname=OfficePoolServer

 

** This method requires you to install 'sshfs'. Easiest way is to install Homebrew first.

To install homebrew (https://brew.sh), run following command in Terminal:

/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"

To install sshfs, run the following commands in Terminal:

  • brew install --cask osxfuse
  • brew install sshfs

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2021-02-21 20:35


How hard is it to set up a Office Pool Web Site?

Once you input all the data (i.e. Brackets) and then set up your reports they way you'd like it's just a matter of
selecting the Reports -> Web Reports -> Build Site.

Then you just take the files that are created and upload (via an FTP client, for example) them to your Web Server.

Be sure to download and run some test scenarios so you know exactly what to expect.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:05


I am having trouble importing the brackets people fill out on the web into my OfficePool program. Can you please help me so I do not have to import 75+ brackets by hand.

Assuming you are using the email-only option: Save all the emails into one folder on your computer. Each email program is different but you can usually just drag and drop them into a folder (sometimes referred to as "Batch"). If not, you may need to save them one-by-one but it's still better than entering them by hand.

Once all your emails are in a folder, select the File -> Import Web Emails menu item. Now choose the "Select
Directory" button and then choose the folder which contains all your emails.

That's it. Import should now be complete.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:08


How come I am not getting emails from my players when they fill out the Web Entry Form?

There could be many different reasons for this. Unless your players are being directed to an error page after filling out the form then the email has been sent.

Here are some possibilities of what could have happened:

  1. Email addresses are not correct (logs show this is actually the number one reason for not getting emails)
  2. Emails are being sent to a SPAM folder (Yahoo! and Gmail. Here is a common Google search)
  3. Your Internet provider (ISP) is blocking emails sent from the form (They treat it as SPAM). Contact them to find out why they are doing this. They should never be filtering emails without your knowledge.
  4. Your ISP is blocking emails sent from the player filling out the form (e.g. Hotmail accounts seem to cause problems for some ISPs)
  5. You (or someone you know) has set up a SPAM filter on your end and the emails are not getting through.
  6. The name of the bracket can also produce errors and the receiving ISP will block them. A typical error that would occur would be something like this: 
    554 5.7.1 The message from (<do-not-reply@pachysoft.com>) with the subject of (Bracket: <insert cute but spam filtered name here> matches a profile the Internet community may consider spam. Please revise your message before resending. 

Be sure to run tests before sending out your web form link to your players so you can help prevent problems once the tournament begins.

Tip: Try using Google's Gmail and then filter these emails so they are sent to your other email addresses. In addition, be sure to select the "Not SPAM" option.

Here is a link on how to set up filters in Gmail: https://support.google.com/mail/answer/6579?hl=en

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2015-03-16 17:08


From the Bracket index report on my pc - when I click on an individual's bracket it pops up. But once it is loaded up to the web nothing happens.

First, your browser must have java script enabled.

Second, you need to upload the template "bracket.htm" file which is created. (This is called the 'Javascript"
option and allows you to save the trouble of having to upload all the brackets individually).

You can go back to uploading all the brackets from Preferences, Reports tab and deselect the "Use Javascript
for Creating Brackets" checkbox.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:14


I am using gmail. How do I save the emails to import them into OfficePool?

Doing a search on the web, there doesn't appear to be an easy way to save emails... Here is one site which may help:

how-to-save-a-gmail-message

But is sounds like your best best is to either use the copy/paste method or set up POP access for your gmail account and use an  email client such as Outlook or Mail.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:18


How do I get rid of the email address on the Individual Brackets?

Go to Preferences, Reports tab and then deselect the “Include Email on bracket” preference. You will then need to
re-generate the Reports by making a change to one of your brackets or closing and re-opening the file.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:18


Is there a way to export certain brackets into an HTML format or PDF or something? I'd like to export my brackets to my tournament participants so they can hold me accountable.

You have a couple options:

1) HTML: Select the bracket(s) and Choose File -> Save Brackets As. (It will prompt you for a filename for each
bracket selected)

2) PDF: A little harder on windows but if using a mac, just select the brackets and choose File -> Print. And then
either save as PDF or use the "Preview" button. On windows, there are free PDF print drivers. (Google Search for Free, PDF, Drivers)

We use CutePDF before and it's pretty good.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-01-02 21:03


This year the file installed in my Program Files. And when I located the folder, there was no OfficePool Files folder within which I had been able to alter the templates in previous years. Can you help?

Launch OfficePool and select the "Reports -> Show Templates Folder" menu item.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:25


Is it possible to run the NCAA pool and the NIT pool both on the same registration? If so can you give me some directions?

Yes, it's possible, in fact, it's encouraged. You will need to create a different file for each pool you are running.
First thing is to get the correct teams file, in your case you will need to download the NIT bracket.

The only real hangup might be, if you are using the database option to import brackets (and you should be), you need to set a UNIQUE index for each file. (See the Database Settings when creating a web form or when importing brackets)

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2017-03-08 15:48


I think I have the reports title correctly shown through preferences. However, when I try to print the Standings, the top of the page reads "Report Title". If I save the file in html, the report title is shown correctly, but I don't like the formatting as well. I like to send my participants pdf files of the standings each day. Can you help?

Yes. See the Preferences, Printing tab and there you can set the title you wish to see when you print.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:26


Do I need the company version? What differences are there?

If you are running a company or corporation-sponsored pool, then, yes, you will need to purchase the company license. While there are no differences in the actual application for single user or company, we will not be able to support a company run pool unless this license is purchased. Some customers also like to give a little extra to help support the development and server costs for OfficePool and this option allows them to do so.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-12-22 18:17


A page says an email has been sent, but I (or a user) did not receive it. What happened to it?

Some hosts and/or email providers (such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc) use SPAM filtering for receiving of email and sometimes your emails  either get tossed or sent to a SPAM folder.

There is nothing we can do to help in this situation. If there are no errors reported when you or your users submit the form, an email has been sent. What happens after that is out of our control.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2010-03-14 18:58


Can reports be exported into excel by chance?

Yes, just select the report and choose the "Save As" button and then select the "Excel" option.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2010-03-14 19:27


How do I export a list of everybody's picks onto an excel spreadsheet round by round? The only option I see is for the Final Four on to the championship game (by exporting a Standings Report, for example). What I need is ALL the users picks.

You can export the entire file's contents using the File -> Export menu item and then choosing the Excel option. This will get you all user information and picks so you will likely need to open it in Excel and make the necessary modifications.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2010-03-14 19:30


In the South Region, selections for Richmond are being displayed as Dayton when viewing them from a web-generated bracket. How do I fix?

Since this was a data entry error on the 2010 NCAA Men's Teams files, you can fix this one of two ways. Here are the step-by-step instructions:

1) Re-Import the Tournament Teams. The process is:

  • Select the File->Get Tournament Teams menu item
  • Select "Yes" if there is a prompt saying "The pool already has brackets..."
  • Select the "Check For Files" button
  • Select either the "2010 Men's Bracket" or "2010 Men's Bracket (Playin)", depending on which file you imported before
  • Select the "Download & Import" button.


2) Manually change the team name from Preferences, Teams tab. The process is:

  • Select the "Preferences" toolbar button
  • Select the "Teams" button
  • Under the "Regions" list, Select "South"
  • Select the "7 Richmond...." line and then Select the "Edit" button
  • Change "Abbr" field from "Dayton" to "Richmond" and select "OK"
  • Select "OK" one more time to save the changes made to your preferences.

NOTE: This data entry error does not affect your Web Entry form so you do not need to regenerate this form. This error only shows up when you generate web reports.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2010-03-15 17:20


I feel I'm missing something simple. How can I create a Sweet 16 pool?

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2010-03-23 15:20


The look and feel of my reports has changed after upgrading from 2010 to 2011. How can I restore the old styles and settings?

In most years, a new folder is created for the templates and this folder also contains the attributes for the "look and feel". The easiest way to revert back to your older settings is to use the Reports -> Show Templates Folder menu item. This will take you to the "OfficePool Files 2011" folder.

If you back up one directory level (Application Support folder) you will see a "OfficePool Files" folder. In this folder you will want to copy "BracketStyles.css" and "MasterStyles.css" files and place them in the "OfficePool Files 2011" folder.

Keep in mind that there were some changes in 2011 so you may lose these changes when reverting back to older files.

Another option is to open these files up in a text editor and manually transfer the needed styles.

A final option is to make these changes from within OfficePool using the Reports -> Modify Report Syles... and Modify Bracket Styles... menu items.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-02-28 15:35


I purchased OfficePool in a previous year, is there a discount for this year's pool?

Yes, an email was sent out identifying the terms of the discount. If you did not receive this be sure to check your SPAM folders.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-01-02 20:57


Will there be a discount for OfficePool 2011 for registered users of previous versions?

Yes, there was a discount. An email was be sent out to the email you used to register and has since expired.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-02-19 05:26


How to I clear or erase a pick?

You have two choices:

  1. Right-click on a bracket and select the "Clear Pick" menu item from the contextual menu
  2. Hold down the Option key (Macintosh) or the Alt key (Windows) and left-click on a bracket

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-02-19 04:42


What's up with the four play-in games (officially called the "First Four") in 2011 and will OfficePool be bale to handle these games.

Short answer is, Yes, OfficePool has been updated for 2011 to handle the First Four games.

A little bit about the First Four: According to the NCAA, the final four at-large teams and final four automatic qualifiers will play in these four games in order to advance into the traditional 64-team bracket. Each region will have one play-in game and these will be determined on Selection Sunday.

Here is an ESPN link for more about the First Four.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-02-19 05:00


My NIT Pool (but *not* my NCAA pools) keeps "hanging" in the midst of the Auto Update process. What's going on? In my other pool I do not have this problem.

Chances are you have some Prompt dialogs enabled. Here is some additional information and tips about how to use the Auto-Update process:

  1. Make sure your HTTP (See Preferences) settings are correct. 
  2. Run a test (Test Script button) before starting the auto-update feature. All prompt dialogs must be disabled, otherwise the script can not run to completion.
  3. Make sure the computer does not go to sleep or into hibernation mode

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2021-02-21 17:45


Is there any way to host the web page on your servers so our contestants can see the results on line?

Sorry but we do not provide a hosting solution. There are many very inexpensive shared hosting solutions available. Simply do a search on Google for "Shared Web Host Cheap".

Another option is to zip the files which are generated from OfficePool and email them out to your pool participants.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-02-19 05:10


Is there an easy way to output the email addresses of data from our pool?

There's a few different ways, but the easiest is:

  1. Select the "Manager" toolbar button
  2. Select all the rows in the list on the left (underneath "Display" label)
  3. Select the "Selected >>" button
  4. Select all the emails from the "To..." field, Copy and Paste.

You can also Choose File -> Export File, save it as "Excel" and open this file from within Excel. This file includes everything about each entry so you will then simply remove any columns as necessary.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-02-19 05:18


The Standings report displays picks for regional winners, finals and champ. I can not tell from where the report is pulling the Final Four-1....4 picks but, in the past, it's always been the regional winners. This year it's showing teams winning different regions. For instance, Louisville appears in the FF-1, FF-2, and FF-3 columns, UConn is in FF-2 and FF-3, and Pitt appears in FF-1, FF-2 and FF-4. Is there a bug in the Reports?

 

No not a bug. It's actually a feature Smile

There is a preference called "Final Four Compact Format on Standings" that is checked (Preferences, Reports tab). If unchecked this is probably what you expected. However, if checked, the following apply (and you should change your field headings to reflect this):

Final Four-1 -> Champ
Final Four-2 -> 2nd Place
Final Four-3 -> Final Four
Final Four-4 -> Final Four

This saves column space. So instead of needing 7 columns, you only need 4 to display the same information. (i.e., with the preference unchecked, you would have Champ, Finals-1, Finals-2, Final Four-1, Final Four-1, Final Four-2, Final Four-4)

 

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-02-19 05:21


Can I install the software on two computers and run one tournament? (I will run just one tourney but will not always have accces to my desktop so I want to install on my laptop as well.) What is the easiset way to keep both computers in sync?

Yes, you may install OfficePool on multiple computers and use one serial number.

OfficePool does not have any built-in syncing mechanisms but storing your file on the cloud (i.e., MobileMe, Dropbox, etc.) where all your computers have access would be a good way to keep it in sync.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-02-19 05:34


Greetings! I'm a long-time customer of OfficePool. Love the software. Keep up the good work! My pools run a seed x weight scoring system. Up until now I've ignored the play-in games, but may want to include them this year. My question for you: in OfficePool, how are the First Four teams handled, in terms of seeding? If the teams are seeded as "16s" even if I assign a 1 to the round weight, there's still 64 points in play for four games, which is a LOT and could potentially unbalance my scoring system. My follow-up question is: can I assign fractional weights to that particular round, i.e. a weight of .5 or even .25, if I choose to use the First Four games? Thanks again for all the hard work in developing OfficePool. My best to all of you.

Thanks for the kind words and encouragement Laughing

From what I understand, the official First Four games will have matching seeds (i.e. two 16's or two 11's or 12's, etc). You can also change these seed values from Preferences -> Teams tab.

And yes, you can use decimal values.

Another option is to use a combination of Seed x Weights and Basic. Then you can award a fixed amount of points (e.g. 10) for a correct First Four pick. (use values of 0 for all other rounds, for example)

Lastly, you may want to check out this link on First Four Options: http://officepool.pachysoft.com/firstFourOptions.html

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-03 22:51


What is the security protection code and file index? (When using the database option for the Web Entry Form)

These are up to the user. If you are running more than one pool, just be sure to have a different index for each file. The security code is just something to prevent outsiders from spamming the server. Something simple is fine.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2017-03-08 15:46


I'm not clear on how to manually edit the First Four teams, since I can only see 4 of the 8 in the team entry screen. How do you do this?

Here is how to edit the First Four (play-in) teams and their opponents using Preferences -> Teams tab:

  1. Select "First Four" from the Regions list.
  2. Select one of the teams. Each team has an opponent from the "Opponent" popup menu.
  3. Click on this and take note of which region and team is selected.
  4. Now select that region from the Regions list and you can edit that First Four team

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-14 06:03


After I import the NIT teams, the teams are off by one round. How do I quickly advance them to the Round of 32?

Once you import the NIT teams, be sure to select The Results bracket and then select the download "Results" button so the teams advance to the Round of 32. In addition, when you create your Web Entry Form, be sure to select the "Fill Form to Results" option when using the NIT bracket or a Sweet 16 bracket.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-14 06:24


I am getting delays or timeouts (500 Internal Server Error) after submitting a bracket. What's going on?

As stated in the documentation for the Web Entry Form, the drawback to using the simple or moderate method is you rely on our servers for the processing script. An unusual amount of traffic is expected during the first week of the tournament and you and your users may experience delays or timeouts. If this happens, just let your users know the issue is being worked to get the server back up as soon as possible. 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-14 07:21


I can't seem to get the email to work. When I try my default email it won't attach the report? If I use Gmail, is there a secrete to getting this to work?

 

If you are using "Use Default Email Application" option, this is expected behavior and attachments won't work automatically.
Selecting this feature just launches your default email application (e.g.., Mail or Outlook), puts in subject and emails and the Message is copied to the clipboard. Once your App launches, you will then need to attach your files per usual methods.

 

To set up Gmail from within OfficePool, see these instructions: 

Link: http://mail.google.com/support/bin/answer.py?answer=78799

587 for the port has been verified to work.

Don't forget, you will first have to enable POP in your Gmail settings.

 

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-18 17:03


I go to the IMPORT feature: What do I put in for "copy SOURCE of the emails and paste it below"?

Each email that is sent to you (after people submit their picks from the Web Entry Form), at the bottom of the email, in light-gray text is:

OfficePool Managers, Select & Copy the following for import:

followed by some more data. You can either select the entire contents of the email and COPY that (Edit->Copy menu item) OR you can select the light-gray text and copy that.

Once copied, you would then PASTE (Edit->Paste menu item) that into the field (below the text "Copy SOURCE of the Email and Paste it into the field below")

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-11 16:58


How come when I "Build Website" some reports are not being generated (Like the Standings Report)?

Go to Preferences (OfficePool 2012->Preferences [Mac] or Edit->Preferences [Windows]) and select the Reports tab. Make sure that the Rows Per Page for Web Reports preference is not set to "0". If it is change it to something larger, like "100".

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-11 17:05


Where can I find the documentation for OfficePool?

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-11 17:09


How many people can partipate in our pool?

There is no limit except to what your computer (and patience) can handle... The most time-consuming and computer intensive tasks are generating the possible outcome reports when there are 16 teams left in the tournament.

To test whether OfficePool will be able to handle your pool, you can just create as many brackets as you think you will have, either manually or you can use the QuikPik feature (Brackets -> Generate QuikPiks... menu item).

Once you have the number of brackets you would like to test, then fill "The Results" bracket through the first two rounds (Brackets -> Pick Favorites -> Sweet 16 menu item) and then go to the reports section. This will then generate the Possible Outcomes report and give you an idea of whether OfficePool will work for you or not.

If Possible Outcomes is not important to you then you can turn this off and that will speed up generation of reports. Make sure "Prompt before calculating Possible Outcomes" preference (Preferences menu item, Reports tab) is selected so that you will be asked whether you want to run them or not.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-11 17:19


What options are available for the "First Four" games and how does OfficePool handle the "First Four"?

Everything you need to know about the "First Four" games can be found here:

--> http://officepool.pachysoft.com/firstFourOptions.html

Here are some more faqs about the First Four

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-11 17:42


When I publish my web reports, the individual brackets all read "no_pick" as the person's pick for every matchup. When I look at them in the software, everything looks fine.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-12 22:24


After setting up the pool and closing the application I cannot reopen it. I get an eroor message saying WebEntry_Form.htm is not a compatible OfficePool File.

You are trying to open the 'WenEntry_Form.htm' and this is not a compatiple OfficePool file. This is an HTML file and can't be open from within OfficePool (This was created by OfficePool but it's just a web page). You need to open the file that ends with the "opl" extension.

NOTE: OfficePool opens the last file you had opened on launch. So if OfficePool starts with this error you will need to open a legitimate OfficePool file and then close the app and restart. OfficePool should now open the legitimate file upon launch.

If not, you can use the "Reports->Show Templates Folder" menu item and it will open a folder which contains the file "com.pachysoft.officepoolmacapp.prefs". Rename or remove this file and restart OfficePool. You will have to re-enter your registration information and this will also reset the file you last opened.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-14 17:23


I'm seeing "The Results" show up in my Standings report. I don't remember "The Results" showing up in earlier versions, and it seems a bit weird for them to show up there.

Yes, this was added preference for 2012. The name of the preference is: Show 'The Results' on Standings (Preferences, Reports tab).

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-15 22:29


ERROR: Problem occured in opening Initial Window

This may occur with a corrupted file. Try renaming the file (the one with the '.opl' extension), re-launch OfficePool and create a new file from scratch.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-15 14:27


I cannot see the entire page on any screen. This includes the last line of the brackets and any of the selection boxes at the bottom of any page.

A couple things to try:

  • Select the Window -> Zoom menu item
  • Select the View -> Reset Splitter Views menu item.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-15 14:35


I am trying to register but keep getting "Not a valid serial number" Please try again. I copied the serial number from the email into the appropriate box, but have had no luck. Can you help?

Try typing the information in exactly as shown from the email.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-15 14:36


I'm trying to send out an email to my entrants but there is no "send" button in the manager screen.

This view has been hidden. Simply choose the View -> Reset Splitter Views menu item and you will now see the Send button (as well as much more information!).

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-15 14:40


When attempting to setup the database file index it is responding to me: "Invalid response from the database. Password could not be set."

This could be one of three things.

  1. You are not using the latest version of OfficePool (See about box and make sure it's the current year and and matches the latest version).
  2. You have not registered OfficePool for the current year
  3. You do have a connection to the internet.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-16 15:11


I’m trying to set up my scoring. What is the difference between the Final Two and the NCAA Championship?

The Final Two are the winners of the Final Four games (two of those). The championship is the winner of the Final Two game.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-17 12:41


Server or Connection problem: Database access returned an invalid response

This appears to be isolated to Windows users and also shows up as error: "Invalid response from database. Password could not be set"

If you are using OfficePool 2013 1.0.2, you will need to either downgrade to 1.0.1 or download a newer release, if available.

Here is a link to version 1.0.1: http://officepool.pachysoft.com/downloads/officepool2013_setup_v1.0.1.exe

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-18 03:06


Help! I get an invalid serial number even though I registered for OfficePool.

This is also related to "Not a valid serial number. Please try again"

A couple things to check:

  1. Make sure you have the latest version of OfficePool. (http://officepool.pachysoft.com/)
  2. First try the copy/paste method. If that doesn't work, try typing it in manually. Some email programs copy/paste hidden characters and OfficePool will not recognize this.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-18 16:36


I am using gmail but my brackets are not coming through. Can you help?

When using Gmail, the best thing to do is set up a filter so that the emails aren't sent to the SPAM folder.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-20 01:21


I’m getting a LoadDataSource error popping up when I attempt to generate reports after entering new picks. I have to click “ok” three times before it will generate reports and then it shows empty rows for all entries but the last one.

The most common cause of this error is that you are opening a file with an older version of OfficePool so make sure you have only one version of OfficePool installed on your computer. There are also possible other conflicts that can arise so it's best to archive or delete these older versions as well.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2014-03-19 15:39


What is the best web site program to download. Needs to be easy to work with.

Author: Jim Ball
Last update: 2015-03-07 21:15


Is there a way to import all of last year's settings into this year's file?

Open up last year's file and then do a "Save As...". Then you can remove all your entries.

If you are using the database option, you will need to re-enter your database settings (Web From toolbar item, "Database Settings"), otherwise the previous year's values will be used and after submitting the form it will state something like, ""The Pool Manager (your email) is not registered for 2015. Your picks were not recorded or sent." 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2015-03-16 06:32


Where is the PowerPC version for 2015?

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2015-03-12 15:33


I am new to the program, where do I start?

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2015-03-15 19:20


The Pool Manager (your email) is not registered for (year). Your picks were not recorded or sent

On submitting my web entry form it is saying I am not registered when I am. The message at the top of the page reads: 

"The Pool Manager (your email) is not registered for <year>. Your picks were not recorded or sent."

Could be one of two things:

1) You are not using the email you registered with when sending picks. This is required. You can also send to a second email, if you wish, by adding a comma and then your other email in the appropriate web form setting.

2) Or it could mean you have used files from last year and the database settings have carried over. Simply go to the DataBase Settings and RE-Save the Security Protection Code and File Index. You can do this in two ways:

  1. Select the "Import" toolbar item and then select "Settings" button and re-enter your information
  2. Select the "Web Form" toolbar item and then select "Database Settings" button and re-enter your information.

 See this related FAQ as well.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2018-03-12 03:38


How do I open the app on a mac when I see the following message: “OfficePool 2017” can’t be opened because it is from an unidentified developer.

The full message you might see is the following:

“OfficePool 2017” can’t be opened because it is from an unidentified developer.

Your security preferences allow installation of only apps from the Mac App Store and identified developers.

 

To override your security settings and open the app anyway:

  1. In the Finder, locate the app you want to open. (Don’t use Launchpad to do this. Launchpad doesn’t allow you to access the shortcut menu.)
  2. Press the Control key and click the app icon, then choose Open from the shortcut menu.
  3. Click Open.

The app is saved as an exception to your security settings, and you can open it in the future by double-clicking it just as you can any registered app.

Note: Another way to grant an exception for a blocked app is to click the “Open Anyway” button on the Security pane of System Preferences. This button is available for about an hour after you try to open the app.

To open this pane, choose Apple menu > System Preferences, then click Security & Privacy.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2017-01-14 16:10


How do I use the "Auto-Update" with SFTP or FTP?

You can use the "Save To Folder" option of the "Auto-Update" feature.

First you must mount the drive on your Mac or PC.

For MacOS:

  1. From the desktop, click Finder
  2. Select the Go menu
  3. Choose the Connect to Server option
  4. Enter in appropriate server address
  5. Click Connect
  6. Enter your Web Disk username and password if/when the system prompts you
  7. Click Connect to open your Web Disk

If this doesn't work, try a search or see another method here: https://www.pydmsw.com/officepool/faq/index.php?action=artikel&cat=1&id=10&artlang=en

 

For Windows:

Try this link or try a search.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2021-03-19 17:19


How to Move or Resize an Off-Screen Window in Windows?

This can happen for many reason so it might be best to do a Google Search however, this is the most common fix:

 

In Windows 10, 8, 7, and Vista, hold down the “Shift” key while right-clicking the item in the taskbar, then select “Move“. In Windows XP, right-click the item in the task-bar and select “Move“.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2017-03-20 16:59


When I try to launch OfficePool I am getting the following error message/dialog: “OfficePool 2018” can’t be opened because it is from an unidentified developer. Your security preferences allow installation of only apps from the App Store and identified developers. How do I fix this?

Go to System Preferences, select "Security and Privacy", "General" tab and select the "Open Anyway" button

 

Security Preference

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2018-03-03 17:17


Web Entry Form does not submit on iPhone or iPads (hangs endlessly).

Make sure the iPhone or iPad user has the Safari Setting "Fraudulent Website Warning" turned OFF. (located under the Settings App, under "Safari")

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2019-03-18 01:45


How to fix this error: "Invalid Response to Database. Password could not be set"

Seems to be an internet service provider issue or you are using a VPN. One user fixed this by using their phone's hotspot. Or try asking your service provider why they are filtering messages without your knowledge.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2023-03-15 00:41


Reports & Templates

What happened to the Possible Outcomes Report from an earlier version of OfficePool?

The "Possible Outcomes" report is a "duplicate" of the Standings report. To get a "Possible Outcomes" report simply
duplicate the standings report and then select the "Possible Outcome" related fields which are at the bottom of the
fields list. You will also need to change the report names and/or fields to match your preferences.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 19:50


Why do the Pct. fields (Chances for first, Money Chances) of the Standings report sometimes generate percentages that total up to more than 100%?

These "Possible Outcome" fields do not take into account any Tiebreaker settings you have set and therefore will count
"Chances" more than once because of ties.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 19:52


The report column headings are not being displyed correctly (or to my liking), can I change them?

Yes, you can edit any report heading (field) by either double-clicking on the field or selecting the Reports ->
Fields -> Edit Field menu item.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 19:52


Why doesn't OfficePool calculate Possible Outcomes after the first round games?

Because there are way too many possibilities for it to be worthwhile. Mathematically speaking, you have 2 to the power
of n possible outcomes left in the tournament (where n is the number of teams left in the tournament minus one).

So, if there are 32 teams left there would be 2.1 Billion outcomes which is why we wait until there are 16 teams or
less (32,768 possible outcomes. A lot, but not unreasonable).

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 19:54


When I open up the Bracket.htm file (In the 'OfficePool Files' folder or when I create my web pages) in a web browser I get an error. Why is this?

'Bracket.htm' is a JavaScript web template for the links located on another report such as Standings. You should never have a direct link to this page.

This file allows you to upload only one file as opposed to each individual bracket, which would save you a lot of time if you had 100s of entries.

If you want to be able to link directly to a specfic bracket, deselect the "Use Javascript for Creating Brackets" option under the Reports Preferences. This may be an issue for large pools as one file per entry will be created.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2021-02-21 17:55


Is there a limitation to the number of brackets I can compare using the Compare report?

Yes, you can not compare more than 60 brackets.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:09


From the Bracket index report on my pc - when I click on an individual's bracket it pops up. But once it is loaded up to the web nothing happens.

First, your browser must have java script enabled.

Second, you need to upload the template "bracket.htm" file which is created. (This is called the 'Javascript"
option and allows you to save the trouble of having to upload all the brackets individually).

You can go back to uploading all the brackets from Preferences, Reports tab and deselect the "Use Javascript
for Creating Brackets" checkbox.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:14


How do I add a logo (or make changes) to the Web Reports that are generated from OfficePool?

Using an HTML editor you can modify the ‘ReportTemplate.htm’ found in the Templates folder (Reports -> Show Templates Folder menu item). You can  add/modify anything you like. Deleting the file will cause OfficePool to generate
the default version. Use the 'Preview' button to view the changes after you save the file.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-02-25 20:44


This year the file installed in my Program Files. And when I located the folder, there was no OfficePool Files folder within which I had been able to alter the templates in previous years. Can you help?

Launch OfficePool and select the "Reports -> Show Templates Folder" menu item.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:25


I think I have the reports title correctly shown through preferences. However, when I try to print the Standings, the top of the page reads "Report Title". If I save the file in html, the report title is shown correctly, but I don't like the formatting as well. I like to send my participants pdf files of the standings each day. Can you help?

Yes. See the Preferences, Printing tab and there you can set the title you wish to see when you print.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:26


Can reports be exported into excel by chance?

Yes, just select the report and choose the "Save As" button and then select the "Excel" option.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2010-03-14 19:27


How do I export a list of everybody's picks onto an excel spreadsheet round by round? The only option I see is for the Final Four on to the championship game (by exporting a Standings Report, for example). What I need is ALL the users picks.

You can export the entire file's contents using the File -> Export menu item and then choosing the Excel option. This will get you all user information and picks so you will likely need to open it in Excel and make the necessary modifications.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2010-03-14 19:30


In the South Region, selections for Richmond are being displayed as Dayton when viewing them from a web-generated bracket. How do I fix?

Since this was a data entry error on the 2010 NCAA Men's Teams files, you can fix this one of two ways. Here are the step-by-step instructions:

1) Re-Import the Tournament Teams. The process is:

  • Select the File->Get Tournament Teams menu item
  • Select "Yes" if there is a prompt saying "The pool already has brackets..."
  • Select the "Check For Files" button
  • Select either the "2010 Men's Bracket" or "2010 Men's Bracket (Playin)", depending on which file you imported before
  • Select the "Download & Import" button.


2) Manually change the team name from Preferences, Teams tab. The process is:

  • Select the "Preferences" toolbar button
  • Select the "Teams" button
  • Under the "Regions" list, Select "South"
  • Select the "7 Richmond...." line and then Select the "Edit" button
  • Change "Abbr" field from "Dayton" to "Richmond" and select "OK"
  • Select "OK" one more time to save the changes made to your preferences.

NOTE: This data entry error does not affect your Web Entry form so you do not need to regenerate this form. This error only shows up when you generate web reports.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2010-03-15 17:20


The look and feel of my reports has changed after upgrading from 2010 to 2011. How can I restore the old styles and settings?

In most years, a new folder is created for the templates and this folder also contains the attributes for the "look and feel". The easiest way to revert back to your older settings is to use the Reports -> Show Templates Folder menu item. This will take you to the "OfficePool Files 2011" folder.

If you back up one directory level (Application Support folder) you will see a "OfficePool Files" folder. In this folder you will want to copy "BracketStyles.css" and "MasterStyles.css" files and place them in the "OfficePool Files 2011" folder.

Keep in mind that there were some changes in 2011 so you may lose these changes when reverting back to older files.

Another option is to open these files up in a text editor and manually transfer the needed styles.

A final option is to make these changes from within OfficePool using the Reports -> Modify Report Syles... and Modify Bracket Styles... menu items.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-02-28 15:35


My NIT Pool (but *not* my NCAA pools) keeps "hanging" in the midst of the Auto Update process. What's going on? In my other pool I do not have this problem.

Chances are you have some Prompt dialogs enabled. Here is some additional information and tips about how to use the Auto-Update process:

  1. Make sure your HTTP (See Preferences) settings are correct. 
  2. Run a test (Test Script button) before starting the auto-update feature. All prompt dialogs must be disabled, otherwise the script can not run to completion.
  3. Make sure the computer does not go to sleep or into hibernation mode

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2021-02-21 17:45


What is the "Final Four Compact Format on Standings" preference all about?

Final Four Compact Format on Standings: If checked the following apply on the Standings reports (Field names will need to be manaully updated accordingly):

  • Final Four-1 -> Champ
  • Final Four-2 -> 2nd Place
  • Final Four-3 -> Final Four
  • Final Four-4 -> Final Four

In addition, if using this option, the following three fields must be de-selected as they will contain meaningless data: Picks-Champ, Picks-Finals-1, Picks-Finals-2.  

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-17 02:56


The Standings report displays picks for regional winners, finals and champ. I can not tell from where the report is pulling the Final Four-1....4 picks but, in the past, it's always been the regional winners. This year it's showing teams winning different regions. For instance, Louisville appears in the FF-1, FF-2, and FF-3 columns, UConn is in FF-2 and FF-3, and Pitt appears in FF-1, FF-2 and FF-4. Is there a bug in the Reports?

 

No not a bug. It's actually a feature Smile

There is a preference called "Final Four Compact Format on Standings" that is checked (Preferences, Reports tab). If unchecked this is probably what you expected. However, if checked, the following apply (and you should change your field headings to reflect this):

Final Four-1 -> Champ
Final Four-2 -> 2nd Place
Final Four-3 -> Final Four
Final Four-4 -> Final Four

This saves column space. So instead of needing 7 columns, you only need 4 to display the same information. (i.e., with the preference unchecked, you would have Champ, Finals-1, Finals-2, Final Four-1, Final Four-1, Final Four-2, Final Four-4)

 

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-02-19 05:21


There does not seem to be a ReportTemplate.htm file that I can open and modify as suggested in the FAQs. There has been in past years and I'd like to use that one but I don't know where to find this.

All the modifiable OfficePool templates can be found by selecting the Reports -> Show Templates Folder menu item.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-02-25 20:42


I want to be able to access my Office Pool from two different computers and I will be using DropBox. Do I need to put the templates and other data found in Library: Application Support, onto each computer? If so, do is there an way to sync them automatically?

Unfortunately, each computer will have to have the templates in Application Support. And no, OfficePool will not automatically find these so you will need to sync theme manually. A future version may have these templates embedded within each file but that is not the case at this time.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-13 15:35


I can not get the website reports to display correctly. All the regular and quik-pik brackets look fine but the reports are listing Clemson, USC, VCU, UAB as finalists for everyone regardless of the picks.

The likely cause is that you have the "Show Final Four Compact Format on Standings" selected under the Preferences -> Reports tab. In addition, the defaults QuikPik standings fields are not properly set, so this report is not in sync with the Standings report.

Here is what you need to do to fix this problem, after you have created your QuikPiks

1) Select the "QuikPik Standings" or "Standings" report
2) De-select the following THREE Fields: Picks-Champ, Picks-Finals-1, Picks-Finals-2
3) Select the following FOUR fields: Picks-Final Four-1, Picks-Final Four-2, Picks-Final Four-3, Picks-Final Four-4

Now you standings should be showing the correct Final Four picks.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-16 21:17


How do I change the look and feel of the Web Entry Form?

There are templates that can be editied directly within OfficePool or copy/paste contents into an HTML editor.

To access this template select the Reports -> Edit Templates menu item and select one of the templates that begin with "Web Entry Form" from the "Template to Modify" popup menu on right side of window.

 

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2015-03-15 21:38


Is it possible to upload all the brackets to the website once the games start so that people can see each other's picks?

Absolutely! That's actually one of the main features of OfficePool.

See the Reports -> Web Reports sub-menu (or the Build Website... button in the Reports area).

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2021-02-21 17:46


How come when I "Build Website" some reports are not being generated (Like the Standings Report)?

Go to Preferences (OfficePool 2012->Preferences [Mac] or Edit->Preferences [Windows]) and select the Reports tab. Make sure that the Rows Per Page for Web Reports preference is not set to "0". If it is change it to something larger, like "100".

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-11 17:05


What options are available for the "First Four" games and how does OfficePool handle the "First Four"?

Everything you need to know about the "First Four" games can be found here:

--> http://officepool.pachysoft.com/firstFourOptions.html

Here are some more faqs about the First Four

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-11 17:42


I accidently selected the Reports->Restore Default Templates Folder... menu item and then hit "Reset". How do I get back my old templates?

Select the Reports -> Show Templates Folder menu item. A Finder (or Explorer) window will open. Your old files will now be in a folder that begins with "Backup." (e.g., Backup.2012-03-11-162334).

Simply open this folder and copy the contents back into the Templates folder and your templates will be back to your modified versions.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-12 22:30


I'm seeing "The Results" show up in my Standings report. I don't remember "The Results" showing up in earlier versions, and it seems a bit weird for them to show up there.

Yes, this was added preference for 2012. The name of the preference is: Show 'The Results' on Standings (Preferences, Reports tab).

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-15 22:29


How does the "Show Movement on Standings" work? I looked at the standings and enabled the "Chg" column and always just see hyphens (--).

This preference is related to the "Baselines" feature (Reports -> Baselines... menu item). There is a help section tab when you select this feature. It reads:

What is the Baselines feature?
When enabled, this feature simply displays the Change (Chg) column on the Standings Report. The Change column will indicate how much an entry (i.e., bracket) has moved since the previous baseline.

Think of this feature in the same way as you would see a stock’s price move from day to day.

Example: Carina’s bracket was in 10th place after the first day of tournament games and Christopher’s bracket was in 1st.  After the second day of games, Carina moved up to 2nd place while Christopher fell to 20th.  Carina’s Change column will now reflect a movement of +8 while Christopher’s stock has dropped 19 spots (-19).


How do I enable this feature?
From the PREFERENCES tab of this dialog you would select the Show Movement Reports checkbox. For the Change column to show up, however, you will need to have created at least two “baselines” from the BASELINES tab.

If you would like this dialog to automatically display at certain times while filling out The Results bracket manually, select the Prompt when entering The Results checkbox. When selected and you are manually filling in The Results (does not prompt when the download results feature) this dialog will display at the intervals indicated in the Teams left in tournament field.


How and When do I create a Baseline?
In addition to having the application prompt you to create a baseline, you can also create one manually. To create a baseline, select the Create Baseline button on the BASELINES tab.

When to create is entirely up to the pool manager and will need to be done manually. Typically, you would create a baseline after each day the games are played.


Important Notes
1) If you are using this feature you will first create a baseline and then create the standings report (or build the web site). Once two baselines have been set, this column will then show up on the reports which use this field.

2) If you forget to create a baseline at any time it may be best to just start over by deleting all the baselines and starting from scratch. You would then need to change the tournament results (The Results bracket) to the point where you want the first baseline, set the baseline, change the results again, set the baseline again and then create the standings report. Remember, you need at least two baselines in order to see any sort of movement.

3) If this feature is still confusing you may just want to skip using this feature. If you are going to use this feature don’t forget to enable the Change field on the appropriate reports.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-16 15:29


How do I turn off the Possible Outcome calculation. I clicked on "always calculate possible outcomes" by mistake and now can't figure out how to turn it off. And with 16 teams and over 430 entries, it takes a looooong time.

Open the preferences window, select 'Reports' and then check the 'Prompt before calculating Possible Outcomes' option.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-15 14:30


How does the "show movement on standings" work. I looked at the standings and enabled the "chg" column and always just see hyphens.

This is part of the Baselines feature which is used to populate the Standings report Change field. Here is additonal information which is also available from within OfficePool.

What is the Baselines feature?
When enabled, this feature simply displays/updates the Change column on the Standings Report. The change column will indicate how much an entry (i.e. bracket) has moved since the previous baseline.

Think of this feature in the same way as you would see a stock’s price move from day to day.

Example: Carina’s bracket was in 10th place after the first day of tournament games and Christopher’s bracket was in 1st.  After the second day of games, Carina moved up to 2nd place while Christopher fell to 20th.  Carina’s Change column will now reflect a movement of +8 while Christopher’s stock has dropped 19 spots (-19).


How do I enable this feature?
From the PREFERENCES tab of Baselines dialog (Reports -> Baselines menu item) you would select the Show Movement Reports checkbox. For the change column to show up, however, you will need to have created at least two “baselines” from the BASELINES tab.

If you would like this dialog to automatically display at certain times while filling out The Results bracket manually, select the Prompt when entering The Results checkbox. When selected and you are manually filling in The Results (does not prompt when the download results feature) this dialog will display at the intervals indicated in the Teams left in tournament field.


How and When do I create a Baseline?
In addition to having the application prompt you to create a baseline, you can also create one manually. To create a baseline, select the Create Baseline button on the BASELINES tab.

When to create is entirely up to the pool manager and will need to be done manually. Typically, you would create a baseline after each day the games are played.


Important Notes
1) If you are using this feature you will first create a baseline and then create the standings report (or build the web site). Once two baselines have been set, this column will then show up on the reports which use this field.

2) If you forget to create a baseline at any time it may be best to just start over by deleting all the baselines and starting from scratch. You would then need to change the tournament results (THE RESULTS bracket) to the point where you want the first baseline, set the baseline, change the results again, set the baseline again and then create the standings report. Remember, you need at least two baselines in order to see any sort of movement.

3) If this feature is still confusing you may just want to skip using this feature. If you are going to use this feature don’t forget to enable the Change field on the appropriate reports.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-15 14:52


I keep getting an error when I click on reports that's says "Problem occurred in LoadDataSource. Please report this error.". Afterwards I can not generate reports (they have no entries).

This likely means you are using a version of the software which is not compatible with the file you are trying to open or the file may be corrupted. You may have to send us the file so we can take a look.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-15 15:00


In this year's "standings" report, "the results" bracket is showing up. Is this a bug?

That's actually a feature. To remove this uncheck the "Show 'The Results' on Standings" checkbox under the Preferences, Reports tab.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2019-02-09 09:01


I am new to the program, where do I start?

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2015-03-15 19:20


Is there a way in preferences to make the results and individual brackets appear horizontal (i.e., landscape, with two regions on the left and two regions on the right?)

Yes. Select "Horizontal (Landscape) Form Layout" from the Preferences, Reports tab.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2018-03-12 15:25


Brackets

Can I import brackets from a mailbox from Apple's Mail program?

Yes. First you should create a mailbox which contains only OfficePool Web Entry emails. Store all of your Web Entries
into this mailbox. Next, select Import Web Emails from the File menu. What you do next depends on the version of Mail
you are using:

Mail Version 2.x:

  1. Select the "Select Directory" button. A dialog comes up asking you to select a directory (or folder).
  2. Find the mailbox (*.mbox) file which is located in your xxx:LIBRARY:MAIL:MAILBOXES folder and then select the "Messages" folder.


Mail Version 1.x:

  1. Select the "Select a File" button. A dialog comes up asking you to select a file.
  2. Select the mailbox (*.mbox) file which is located in your xxx:LIBRARY:MAIL:MAILBOXES folder.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 19:56


When I open up the Bracket.htm file (In the 'OfficePool Files' folder or when I create my web pages) in a web browser I get an error. Why is this?

'Bracket.htm' is a JavaScript web template for the links located on another report such as Standings. You should never have a direct link to this page.

This file allows you to upload only one file as opposed to each individual bracket, which would save you a lot of time if you had 100s of entries.

If you want to be able to link directly to a specfic bracket, deselect the "Use Javascript for Creating Brackets" option under the Reports Preferences. This may be an issue for large pools as one file per entry will be created.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2021-02-21 17:55


How often will the actual tournament results be updated? (i.e. When I click on the downloads results button sometimes the latest results do not show up)

The men's NCAA and NIT brackets will be updated within 10 minutes of each game's ending. The women's NCAA bracket will be updated 1-3 times each day, depending on the round. If they are not updated as fast as you'd like you can always make a couple clicks on 'The Results' bracket to update them manually.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-19 16:09


I am having trouble importing the brackets people fill out on the web into my OfficePool program. Can you please help me so I do not have to import 75+ brackets by hand.

Assuming you are using the email-only option: Save all the emails into one folder on your computer. Each email program is different but you can usually just drag and drop them into a folder (sometimes referred to as "Batch"). If not, you may need to save them one-by-one but it's still better than entering them by hand.

Once all your emails are in a folder, select the File -> Import Web Emails menu item. Now choose the "Select
Directory" button and then choose the folder which contains all your emails.

That's it. Import should now be complete.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:08


Is there a limitation to the number of brackets I can compare using the Compare report?

Yes, you can not compare more than 60 brackets.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:09


I am using gmail. How do I save the emails to import them into OfficePool?

Doing a search on the web, there doesn't appear to be an easy way to save emails... Here is one site which may help:

how-to-save-a-gmail-message

But is sounds like your best best is to either use the copy/paste method or set up POP access for your gmail account and use an  email client such as Outlook or Mail.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:18


How do I get rid of the email address on the Individual Brackets?

Go to Preferences, Reports tab and then deselect the “Include Email on bracket” preference. You will then need to
re-generate the Reports by making a change to one of your brackets or closing and re-opening the file.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2009-11-28 20:18


In the South Region, selections for Richmond are being displayed as Dayton when viewing them from a web-generated bracket. How do I fix?

Since this was a data entry error on the 2010 NCAA Men's Teams files, you can fix this one of two ways. Here are the step-by-step instructions:

1) Re-Import the Tournament Teams. The process is:

  • Select the File->Get Tournament Teams menu item
  • Select "Yes" if there is a prompt saying "The pool already has brackets..."
  • Select the "Check For Files" button
  • Select either the "2010 Men's Bracket" or "2010 Men's Bracket (Playin)", depending on which file you imported before
  • Select the "Download & Import" button.


2) Manually change the team name from Preferences, Teams tab. The process is:

  • Select the "Preferences" toolbar button
  • Select the "Teams" button
  • Under the "Regions" list, Select "South"
  • Select the "7 Richmond...." line and then Select the "Edit" button
  • Change "Abbr" field from "Dayton" to "Richmond" and select "OK"
  • Select "OK" one more time to save the changes made to your preferences.

NOTE: This data entry error does not affect your Web Entry form so you do not need to regenerate this form. This error only shows up when you generate web reports.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2010-03-15 17:20


How to I clear or erase a pick?

You have two choices:

  1. Right-click on a bracket and select the "Clear Pick" menu item from the contextual menu
  2. Hold down the Option key (Macintosh) or the Alt key (Windows) and left-click on a bracket

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-02-19 04:42


I can't get the First Four games to show up on the Web Entry form or the Bracket display even when I select it in preferences. How do I set up the First Four games?

After you select First Four (Preferences, Teams tab), you will also need to select an opponent for each region. Here are the steps to take:

  1. Open the Preferences window
  2. Select "Teams" from the toolbar menu
  3. Select "Use First Four" checkbox
  4. Select "First Four" from the "Regions" list
  5. Select a team from the right-hand list
  6. Select an opponent from the "Opponent" popup menu

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-02-19 04:53


What's up with the four play-in games (officially called the "First Four") in 2011 and will OfficePool be bale to handle these games.

Short answer is, Yes, OfficePool has been updated for 2011 to handle the First Four games.

A little bit about the First Four: According to the NCAA, the final four at-large teams and final four automatic qualifiers will play in these four games in order to advance into the traditional 64-team bracket. Each region will have one play-in game and these will be determined on Selection Sunday.

Here is an ESPN link for more about the First Four.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-02-19 05:00


Is there an easy way to output the email addresses of data from our pool?

There's a few different ways, but the easiest is:

  1. Select the "Manager" toolbar button
  2. Select all the rows in the list on the left (underneath "Display" label)
  3. Select the "Selected >>" button
  4. Select all the emails from the "To..." field, Copy and Paste.

You can also Choose File -> Export File, save it as "Excel" and open this file from within Excel. This file includes everything about each entry so you will then simply remove any columns as necessary.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-02-19 05:18


Greetings! I'm a long-time customer of OfficePool. Love the software. Keep up the good work! My pools run a seed x weight scoring system. Up until now I've ignored the play-in games, but may want to include them this year. My question for you: in OfficePool, how are the First Four teams handled, in terms of seeding? If the teams are seeded as "16s" even if I assign a 1 to the round weight, there's still 64 points in play for four games, which is a LOT and could potentially unbalance my scoring system. My follow-up question is: can I assign fractional weights to that particular round, i.e. a weight of .5 or even .25, if I choose to use the First Four games? Thanks again for all the hard work in developing OfficePool. My best to all of you.

Thanks for the kind words and encouragement Laughing

From what I understand, the official First Four games will have matching seeds (i.e. two 16's or two 11's or 12's, etc). You can also change these seed values from Preferences -> Teams tab.

And yes, you can use decimal values.

Another option is to use a combination of Seed x Weights and Basic. Then you can award a fixed amount of points (e.g. 10) for a correct First Four pick. (use values of 0 for all other rounds, for example)

Lastly, you may want to check out this link on First Four Options: http://officepool.pachysoft.com/firstFourOptions.html

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-03 22:51


I'm not clear on how to manually edit the First Four teams, since I can only see 4 of the 8 in the team entry screen. How do you do this?

Here is how to edit the First Four (play-in) teams and their opponents using Preferences -> Teams tab:

  1. Select "First Four" from the Regions list.
  2. Select one of the teams. Each team has an opponent from the "Opponent" popup menu.
  3. Click on this and take note of which region and team is selected.
  4. Now select that region from the Regions list and you can edit that First Four team

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-14 06:03


After I import the NIT teams, the teams are off by one round. How do I quickly advance them to the Round of 32?

Once you import the NIT teams, be sure to select The Results bracket and then select the download "Results" button so the teams advance to the Round of 32. In addition, when you create your Web Entry Form, be sure to select the "Fill Form to Results" option when using the NIT bracket or a Sweet 16 bracket.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-14 06:24


How can I omit email address from individual brackets? It's not an option when individual brackets are generated.

 

Assuming you mean when you don't use the Javascript brackets option... You would need to modify the bracket template. Here are the steps:

  1. Select Reports -> Edit Templates... menu item
  2. Select the Bracket Template you are using from the popup menu on the top right of the window. Edit or Copy/Paste contents into an HTML editor or Text editor
  3. Search for and remove "#email#" (without the quotes)

Now when you create a bracket, the email field will not show up.

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2015-03-15 21:41


I can't seem to download brackets using the 'Download Brackets' button on the Import from Online Database page within the Office Pool program.

You need to be certain you selected the Database option when you created your Web Entry Form. If you did not do this then the brackets were not stored in our database.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-15 19:50


How do I import brackets by copying and pasting method on the Import page?

The simplest way to import emails one at a time is to open the email and select the Gray text at the bottom, which starts with;

OfficePool Managers, Select & Copy the following for import:

So select and copy all this gray text and then paste it into the "Import Email Contents" field (Edit -> Paste menu item after you select inside the field). Now, select the "Import Email Contents" button and you can import these one at a time.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-15 19:54


How do I import a batch of emails using Gmail or Yahoo! mail?

Here is a link for Gmail: http://www.google.com/support/forum/p/gmail/thread?tid=212fc13266d74bb9&hl=en

For yahoo! Mail you would also do something similar (i.e., Setup/read your Yahoo Mail from within a program like Outlook or Mail)

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-15 19:58


I can not get the website reports to display correctly. All the regular and quik-pik brackets look fine but the reports are listing Clemson, USC, VCU, UAB as finalists for everyone regardless of the picks.

The likely cause is that you have the "Show Final Four Compact Format on Standings" selected under the Preferences -> Reports tab. In addition, the defaults QuikPik standings fields are not properly set, so this report is not in sync with the Standings report.

Here is what you need to do to fix this problem, after you have created your QuikPiks

1) Select the "QuikPik Standings" or "Standings" report
2) De-select the following THREE Fields: Picks-Champ, Picks-Finals-1, Picks-Finals-2
3) Select the following FOUR fields: Picks-Final Four-1, Picks-Final Four-2, Picks-Final Four-3, Picks-Final Four-4

Now you standings should be showing the correct Final Four picks.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-16 21:17


This year is my first with Web Entry Form. I chose the SIMPLE method. In setting up the Web Entry Form, I listed my email address and listed the title of my WEF. WHAT DO I LIST IN THE "REDIRECTED URL" space?I emailed the 25- 30 people that do the pool at work and the link works. I have 3 emails back. I go to the IMPORT feature: WHAT DO I PUT in "copy SOURCE of the emails and paste it below?

For the URL, put in the link to where you want your users to go after they have submitted the form.

The source of the email is the TEXT of the email. All you really need is the text after the line that reads: "OfficePool Managers, Select & Copy the following for import"

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-02-28 15:33


How come when I "Build Website" some reports are not being generated (Like the Standings Report)?

Go to Preferences (OfficePool 2012->Preferences [Mac] or Edit->Preferences [Windows]) and select the Reports tab. Make sure that the Rows Per Page for Web Reports preference is not set to "0". If it is change it to something larger, like "100".

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-11 17:05


What options are available for the "First Four" games and how does OfficePool handle the "First Four"?

Everything you need to know about the "First Four" games can be found here:

--> http://officepool.pachysoft.com/firstFourOptions.html

Here are some more faqs about the First Four

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-11 17:42


When I publish my web reports, the individual brackets all read "no_pick" as the person's pick for every matchup. When I look at them in the software, everything looks fine.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-12 22:24


I went through the process to get the brackets in place and have downloaded statistics. Just found that we missed an entry. How can I add it? Create a new saved bracket? Will it screw up the statistics?

Yes, simply create the new bracket and the reports will be automaticlly updated. You will then have to upload the new files to your web server. 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2015-03-12 15:32


I am new to the program, where do I start?

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2015-03-15 19:20


Web Entry Form

How come I am not getting emails from my players when they fill out the Web Entry Form?

There could be many different reasons for this. Unless your players are being directed to an error page after filling out the form then the email has been sent.

Here are some possibilities of what could have happened:

  1. Email addresses are not correct (logs show this is actually the number one reason for not getting emails)
  2. Emails are being sent to a SPAM folder (Yahoo! and Gmail. Here is a common Google search)
  3. Your Internet provider (ISP) is blocking emails sent from the form (They treat it as SPAM). Contact them to find out why they are doing this. They should never be filtering emails without your knowledge.
  4. Your ISP is blocking emails sent from the player filling out the form (e.g. Hotmail accounts seem to cause problems for some ISPs)
  5. You (or someone you know) has set up a SPAM filter on your end and the emails are not getting through.
  6. The name of the bracket can also produce errors and the receiving ISP will block them. A typical error that would occur would be something like this: 
    554 5.7.1 The message from (<do-not-reply@pachysoft.com>) with the subject of (Bracket: <insert cute but spam filtered name here> matches a profile the Internet community may consider spam. Please revise your message before resending. 

Be sure to run tests before sending out your web form link to your players so you can help prevent problems once the tournament begins.

Tip: Try using Google's Gmail and then filter these emails so they are sent to your other email addresses. In addition, be sure to select the "Not SPAM" option.

Here is a link on how to set up filters in Gmail: https://support.google.com/mail/answer/6579?hl=en

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2015-03-16 17:08


What do I put for an index when setting up the online form and what is the number for?

Any number. 1 is good.

Since you will be using the Database option an index is required so that you can run multiple pools (i.e multiple
OfficePool files). Each file must have a UNIQUE index. Then, when you go to import the brackets, you will only get
those brackets associated with the file's index.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2017-03-08 15:47


A page says an email has been sent, but I (or a user) did not receive it. What happened to it?

Some hosts and/or email providers (such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc) use SPAM filtering for receiving of email and sometimes your emails  either get tossed or sent to a SPAM folder.

There is nothing we can do to help in this situation. If there are no errors reported when you or your users submit the form, an email has been sent. What happens after that is out of our control.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2010-03-14 18:58


I feel I'm missing something simple. How can I create a Sweet 16 pool?

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2010-03-23 15:20


What is the security protection code and file index? (When using the database option for the Web Entry Form)

These are up to the user. If you are running more than one pool, just be sure to have a different index for each file. The security code is just something to prevent outsiders from spamming the server. Something simple is fine.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2017-03-08 15:46


I am getting delays or timeouts (500 Internal Server Error) after submitting a bracket. What's going on?

As stated in the documentation for the Web Entry Form, the drawback to using the simple or moderate method is you rely on our servers for the processing script. An unusual amount of traffic is expected during the first week of the tournament and you and your users may experience delays or timeouts. If this happens, just let your users know the issue is being worked to get the server back up as soon as possible. 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-14 07:21


When I submit picks via the Web Entry Form, the resulting page gives me an error that: The Pool Manager (email address) is not registered for 2011. Your picks were not recorded or sent. However, I am registered and have a valid key.

If you generate a Web Entry form before entering in the registration code, you may see this error. Just to be sure, make sure the registration code has been entered and then re-generate the Web Entry Form.

Also make sure you are 100% sure you're using the 2019 version of OfficePool and not a previous version.

If needed, start a brand new file from scratch.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2019-03-18 15:15


I can't seem to download brackets using the 'Download Brackets' button on the Import from Online Database page within the Office Pool program.

You need to be certain you selected the Database option when you created your Web Entry Form. If you did not do this then the brackets were not stored in our database.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2011-03-15 19:50


How do I change the look and feel of the Web Entry Form?

There are templates that can be editied directly within OfficePool or copy/paste contents into an HTML editor.

To access this template select the Reports -> Edit Templates menu item and select one of the templates that begin with "Web Entry Form" from the "Template to Modify" popup menu on right side of window.

 

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2015-03-15 21:38


I chose the SIMPLE method. In setting up the Web Entry Form, I listed my email address and listed the title. What do I put in for the "REDIRECTED URL"?

You put in the URL (http link, e.g., http://yourwebsite.com) where you want your visitors to go after the submit the Web Entry Form.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-11 16:49


I go to the IMPORT feature: What do I put in for "copy SOURCE of the emails and paste it below"?

Each email that is sent to you (after people submit their picks from the Web Entry Form), at the bottom of the email, in light-gray text is:

OfficePool Managers, Select & Copy the following for import:

followed by some more data. You can either select the entire contents of the email and COPY that (Edit->Copy menu item) OR you can select the light-gray text and copy that.

Once copied, you would then PASTE (Edit->Paste menu item) that into the field (below the text "Copy SOURCE of the Email and Paste it into the field below")

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-11 16:58


What options are available for the "First Four" games and how does OfficePool handle the "First Four"?

Everything you need to know about the "First Four" games can be found here:

--> http://officepool.pachysoft.com/firstFourOptions.html

Here are some more faqs about the First Four

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2012-03-11 17:42


The database option does not work when selecting the Advanced method

Yes, this is a know but and the Advanced Method should be greyed out and not selectable. If you want to use the Database option (which is a very good idea), select the Moderate method only.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-16 02:33


When attempting to setup the database file index it is responding to me: "Invalid response from the database. Password could not be set."

This could be one of three things.

  1. You are not using the latest version of OfficePool (See about box and make sure it's the current year and and matches the latest version).
  2. You have not registered OfficePool for the current year
  3. You do have a connection to the internet.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-16 15:11


I am registered yet I get the following error: "The Pool Manager (email) is not registered for 2019"

This could be due to the fact that you are using a previous year's version of OfficePool or you are re-using a Web Form or OfficePool file from last year. Make sure you are using the lastest version and then try re-creating the Web Form.

Also make sure you have reset the database settings by selecting the "Import" tab and then selecting "settings" in the lower right-hand corner.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2019-03-18 01:48


Server or Connection problem: Database access returned an invalid response

This appears to be isolated to Windows users and also shows up as error: "Invalid response from database. Password could not be set"

If you are using OfficePool 2013 1.0.2, you will need to either downgrade to 1.0.1 or download a newer release, if available.

Here is a link to version 1.0.1: http://officepool.pachysoft.com/downloads/officepool2013_setup_v1.0.1.exe

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-18 03:06


I am using gmail but my brackets are not coming through. Can you help?

When using Gmail, the best thing to do is set up a filter so that the emails aren't sent to the SPAM folder.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2013-03-20 01:21


I am new to the program, where do I start?

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2015-03-15 19:20


The Pool Manager (your email) is not registered for (year). Your picks were not recorded or sent

On submitting my web entry form it is saying I am not registered when I am. The message at the top of the page reads: 

"The Pool Manager (your email) is not registered for <year>. Your picks were not recorded or sent."

Could be one of two things:

1) You are not using the email you registered with when sending picks. This is required. You can also send to a second email, if you wish, by adding a comma and then your other email in the appropriate web form setting.

2) Or it could mean you have used files from last year and the database settings have carried over. Simply go to the DataBase Settings and RE-Save the Security Protection Code and File Index. You can do this in two ways:

  1. Select the "Import" toolbar item and then select "Settings" button and re-enter your information
  2. Select the "Web Form" toolbar item and then select "Database Settings" button and re-enter your information.

 See this related FAQ as well.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2018-03-12 03:38


Web Entry Form does not submit on iPhone or iPads (hangs endlessly).

Make sure the iPhone or iPad user has the Safari Setting "Fraudulent Website Warning" turned OFF. (located under the Settings App, under "Safari")

 

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2019-03-18 01:45


I’m not receiving any emails at all when I submit my web entry form. However, I do get the confirmation page.

Since you are getting the confirmation page make sure, if you are using multiple email addresses, to use a comma and not a semi-colon.

If that's not your issue, make certain you are using the right version of OfficePool and not a previous year's version.

Lastly, check your email's SPAM folder.

Author: OfficePool
Last update: 2019-03-18 15:27