Open daterange
The Open Date Range module provides a new field type that allows for flexible date ranges where either the start or end date, or both, can be optional. This is useful for representing time periods with unknown or variable boundaries, such as ongoing projects or deadlines.
Allows optional start AND end dates for date ranges! The Open Date Range module provides a new field type that solves a limitation of Drupal's standard date range field: requiring both a start and end date. This module allows you to model flexible time periods where both the start and end dates are optional in content forms. This is perfect for defining ranges where one or both boundaries are unknown or subject to change.
Features
- Basic Functionality: This module introduces the Open date range field type, which is a direct extension of the core Datetime Range field.
- Unique Feature: It overrides Drupal's default validation and widget rules to ensure that neither the Start Date nor the End Date is required in the content editing form. The field will only be treated as empty and discarded if the editor leaves both date inputs completely blank. This allows for ranges defined by only a start date, only an end date, or a full range.
- When and Why to Use: Use this module whenever you need flexibility in defining a time period. If you need to record a deadline without a specific start time, or a project that is "Ongoing Since..." without a set end date, this is the solution.
- Use Cases:
- Deadlines/Cut-Offs: Record an event with just a required "Due By" date (End Date only).
- Ongoing Periods: Record a status that started on a specific date and is still active (Start Date only).
- Draft Scheduling: Allow content to be saved even if the full date range is still to be determined.
Post-Installation
This module does not have a separate configuration page or administration settings form. Its functionality is exposed immediately as a new field type.
- Navigate to Structure → Content types (or the structure page for your target entity, e.g., Taxonomy).
- Click Manage fields for the desired entity bundle.
- Click Add new field.
- Select the field type Open date range (found under the Date/Time category).
- On the Manage form display tab, ensure the widget is set to Open date and time range. This is the custom widget that ensures the form fields are optional.
Additional Requirements
This project requires one Drupal core module to be enabled:
- Datetime Range
Recommended modules/libraries
There are currently no specific recommended modules or libraries that enhance the core functionality of Open Date Range.
Similar projects
The primary alternative is to use two separate Date fields (one for the start, one for the end) and rely on the entity's field settings to make both optional.
- Differentiation: The Open Date Range module is superior because it provides a single, cohesive field that maintains the semantic relationship of a date range, allowing you to use standard date range formatters and easily integrate with Views and other modules designed for the native date range type.