Forum Discussion
Dataverse lookup columns
Hi Rexter,
Using lookup fields in Dataverse is generally considered to be a good practice. In fact, it is one of the key features of Dataverse that allows you to create relationships between tables. This can help you to reduce data duplication and improve the accuracy of your data.
But, there are a few things to keep in mind when using lookup fields:
- Make sure that you create the correct type of relationship between the tables. Dataverse supports three types of relationships: one-to-one, one-to-many, and many-to-many.
- Make sure that you filter the lookup field to only show the values that are relevant to the table that you are using it in. This will help to improve the performance of your applications and make it easier for users to find the information they need.
- Be careful not to create circular references between tables. This can lead to performance problems and other errors.
If you are following these best practices, then using lookup fields in Dataverse should be a good way to improve the design and performance of your applications.
Here are some useful links that you may find helpful:
- Microsoft Docs: Create a relationship between tables by using a lookup column: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/power-apps/maker/data-platform/data-platform-entity-lookup
- Microsoft Docs: Understand record references and polymorphic lookups in canvas apps: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/power-apps/maker/canvas-apps/working-with-references
- Power Automate: Work with Dataverse lookup columns in Power Automate flows: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlVz_ISDF2k
- PowerApps: Dataverse Lookup columns and Relationships - Create, Edit, View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPkv7S11Zp8
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Kindest regards,
Leon Pavesic
(LinkedIn)
While this response may apply to non-Access applications, the question here is in regard to MS Access.
Responsible Access relational database developers avoid Lookup fields for a number of reasons.
They are, in fact, a merging of two separate components of a well-designed database. That is, they involve forcing interface elements (the display of related values in the table) into the table. That is needless from the point of view of the actual database structure, and can be confusing at the very least.
Needless to say, any recommendation to use Lookup fields in Access relational database applications has to be taken with a grain of salt.