Checking entry against authority list

[deego55]

I have a list of about 4,000 author names (authority list). When a new record is created in related db (book catalog)I would like to check the author name entry against the authority list to see if there is a match. i also need to see any similar names if there is not a match and be able to choose one of those to replace the author name or add the current author name to that list. I assume this is possible with a portal structure but I cant figure out how to list multiple similar names (based on last name). I can only get one portal row to show up using the lookup value [if no match..go next]. I would like to list 5 other possibilities (the next 5 author names)

[mr_vodka]

A good might possibly be to do a search on 'clairvoyance' and also filtered portals.

[T-Square]

I recommend building a separate search and select interface. Have the user search for their preferred entry and return a list of matches in a list layout. That layout has a Select button for each entry, and an Add button if the result is not found. Have the selected (or created) AuthorID put into your book entry.

HTH,

David

[Oldfogey]

I had a requirement very similar to this some time back. We needed to make sure the people enrolling in a course were on a list of eligible people.

Created a relationship based on surname which gave us a list in a portal of the possible matches. Simple matter to get more details, if necessary, to select the correct body and/or add the new body.