I have been constructing a suite to help track my graphic arts business. My problem is that my job numbering scheme uses an alphanumeric set-up based on the client such as Joe's Garage would be JG-001. I have created a client list that contains an entry that stores what the prefix is and I am able to have my job list relate to that field and automatically enter the prefix, but I would like the job number field to look at the prefix and then create a sequential number for that prefix only. In other words each client has their own running sequence like JG-001 or BTI-123 depending on how many jobs have been done for that client. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

What happens when you add Jerry's Garage, Jan's Goats, and Julie's Gas to that list?

What happens when Joe partners with his brother and they change the name to Smith Brothers Garage?

I think you might want to re-think your goal.

Do they really care what their job # is?

How about just one generic sequence?

Or even completely meaningless ID's?

Or just separate the fields... an identifier and a sequential job # in separate fields.

They already are in separate fields. The problem is that they each have different running totals. It allows me to keep track of how many jobs I have done for each client nad allow accounting to know that a particular item goes to a particular client. I understand what you are saying and am actually changing that alpha portion to a client number, but the initial problem remains. I need to be able to have the database look at the last number for a given client and increase it by one.