Lookup Tables
A lookup table is simple table with fields that serve as a data source for dropdowns or listboxes. For example, a lookup table could have one field called “Department_Name”. The records in this table would each be one of an organization’s departments. Lookup tables save you time because you can reference one table in many DataPages. Because they all reference one data source, these dropdowns are more accurate. If you ever need to make changes, all of the drop downs will be updated simultaneously. Also, selecting an option from a dropdown or listbox standardizes the input.
Common lookup tables for dropdowns and listboxes:
For your convenience, we have provided some commonly-used lookup tables that you can download by right-mouse clicking and selecting the "Save As" option.
Steps to create a new lookup table:
1. Press the ‘New Table’ Button
In the Caspio Bridge Explorer window proceed to the Tables view. Create a new table and name it. It’s a good idea to add “Lookup_” at the beginning of your lookup table names so they will be grouped together and easy to find later if you’d like to update them.
2. Format your field(s)
Often times your lookup tables will only have one field (e.g. “State” or “Status”). Be sure to set your Data Type appropriately. Click Save and close your table.
3. Enter your records
Open your table in the Edit view by pressing the Open button. Now you can enter each future dropdown option as a new record.
4. Click Save and Close
Once you've saved your table, it is ready to be referenced in your DataPages. Anytime you update this lookup table to add or change records, all of the referencing dropdowns will be updated automatically.
What is a Cascading Lookup Table?
You can also make a lookup table with multiple fields to be used in cascading dropdowns or listboxes. Cascading dropdowns and listboxes dynamically populate based on a user's previous selection. For example, if a user selects their state, the following dropdown can be populated with only the cities located in that state.
Creating cascading lookup table
A cascading lookup table is very similar in format to a regular lookup table. A cascading lookup table will have multiple related columns. A good example of a cascading lookup table contains data for zip codes. Each record has a Text (255) field for state, county, city and zip code. In order for a cascading dropdown or listbox to function correctly data must be entered in each field. For more information see cascading dropdowns and listboxes.
