How can I validate data across workbooks?
I'd like to set up an data entry form, where the user has to assign a unique ID to an item. To make sure the ID is a unique one, I thought I could transfer previously assigned IDs into a column *of another workbook*, and set a validation rule in the worksheet form's data entry cell that validates that the chosen number is not present among those in the column in the column of the other workbook. To my disappointment, Excel told me that data validation cannot be used across worksheets/workbooks. Is there a workaround, or can anyone think of another way to warn the user that a previously assigned ID has been entered ???
Thanks for your help!!
Klaus
I'd like to set up an data entry form, where the user has to assign a unique ID to an item. To make sure the ID is a unique one, I thought I could transfer previously assigned IDs into a column *of another workbook*, and set a validation rule in the worksheet form's data entry cell that validates that the chosen number is not present among those in the column in the column of the other workbook. To my disappointment, Excel told me that data validation cannot be used across worksheets/workbooks. Is there a workaround, or can anyone think of another way to warn the user that a previously assigned ID has been entered ???
Thanks for your help!!
Klaus