"Lookup" field choices

[dee]

Hi,

I am creating a field the states the relationship of a survey respondent in
relation to the head of the household. These are coded - 1 = spouse, 2=son,
3= daughter, etc. There are about 15 different options and one of these
options must be selected.

Should I create a separate table, or should I create a lookup where I input
the choices?

Any advice on the best approach?

Thanks!

 

[Joan Wild]

Create a separate table; easier to maintain.

Also, avoid the 'lookup field wizard' in a table, as it will just cause you grief. Instead create lookups on your forms to lookup the values in your table.

See www.mvps.org/access/lookupfields.htm

 

[dee]

Hi Joan,

Thanks for your response. I'm actually now wondering if I should just add
it in my answers table.

I am creating a survey database - so I have tables that contain questions,
answers and responses. I was directed to Duane Hookom's survey database
which put me on the right track. There can be often 4 or 5 answers that
respondents can choose from for each question. This would simply be 15 or 20
choices as opposed to 4 or 5.

Does that make sense to you?

Thanks!

--
Thanks!

Dee

Create a separate table; easier to maintain.

Also, avoid the 'lookup field wizard' in a table, as it will just cause you grief. Instead create lookups on your forms to lookup the values in your table.

See www.mvps.org/access/lookupfields.htm

 

[Joan Wild]

I still think you should make a separate table for this. If/when you need to edit/add to the list, you only need to add/edit the records in the table (one place). If you use a value list, then you need to make the changes in design view of every form where it is used.

It's much easier to make the change in one place; and it is easier for users as well.

The fact is that this is data, and that belongs in a table, not in some value list hidden in a table's design.

--
Joan Wild
Microsoft Access MVP

Hi Joan,

Thanks for your response. I'm actually now wondering if I should just add
it in my answers table.

I am creating a survey database - so I have tables that contain questions,
answers and responses. I was directed to Duane Hookom's survey database
which put me on the right track. There can be often 4 or 5 answers that
respondents can choose from for each question. This would simply be 15 or 20
choices as opposed to 4 or 5.

Does that make sense to you?

Thanks!