Value List vs. Table/Query Look Up

[benthamq]

Hello all,


I am new to Access 2010 and greatly appreciate any help offered.

I have a table with customer data which includes a field called, "Terms," (meaning payment terms). The records in this table will contain values like like Net 30, Net 45, Net 60, 1% Net 10 / Net 30, COD, etc.
I also have a table with vendor data with a field called, "Terms." The records in this field will contain the same data for purchases.

I don't want the users to be able to change the values for terms so I would like to have them select from a list with all the potential types of terms.

How is this best handled? It seems like I have three options:
1) Use a value list and type the values
2) Create a separate table with only two fields, an ID primary key and the terms, and use a select statement.

Which is better? Is there a general rule for look-ups regarding value lists vs. separate table with SQL statement?

Also, if this is accomplished by the table, is it necessary to create a relationship between the primary key of the terms type and the foreign key in the customer or vendor field?

Thanks very much for help.

[TheShabz]

I'm going to assume that there is a form interface for your users to enter this data in. What you should do is create a separate table of terms, then create a combobox that holds those values. The user can then select an option and you can continue from there.

[RuralGuy]

The separate table is more flexible and need only have one field if that's what you want. Use it as the RowSource of a ComboBox and all of the work is done for you.

[benthamq]

@RuralGuy and TheShabz - Thanks.

I will mark this solved.

[RuralGuy]

Glad we could help.