Item Editor form for list - use a lookup table for dropdown

Question

We have a list on SharePoint 2010 called "Policies". It contains a couple of dropdown boxes which point to custom columns. These columns get their data by going to List Settings > clicking on the column name > and then adding/editing items in the field labeled Type each choice on a separate line:. Can the column point to a lookup table (list) that the users can edit just like any other list?

Answer 1

You could do this in several ways:

• Convert your existing choice field to an "open" choice field where you set allow 'fill-in' choices to "Yes"
• Use Lookup in a different list (as you suggest)
• Use a Managed Metadata field and select a taxonomy that is administered by selected Group Managers
• Use a Managed Metadata field and select an open taxonomy (folksonomy) that end users can add to, by setting Allow 'Fill-in' choices.

Both Taxonomy options requires that you set up Managed Metadata Service and define a Group and a Term Set that matches your needs.