Question/Problem with relationship fields

[pubdss]

I am only experienced with the basic functions of FMP so please bear with me. (my disclaimer before I start my questioning)

I want to make filling in fields less repetative using relationships. I have a database with estimates for our clients. In the 2nd section we list printing bids. It is organized like a chart with buyers going vertically and quantity going horizontally and final choices are refered to as A2 or B1. Click HEREto see a screenshot.The quantities are referred to as "option A", "option B",etc. Right now, I have to manually enter the data in below with. The only automation is when I enter the printer code under the "printing bids" section, the printer code and printer name are entered automatically in the next section.

I don't know if its possible to automate this process because the field is not specific. Can the sections below accept data from diverse relationships? My desired configuration is HERE. I want "option selected" to provide data for the fields below it. Is this possible?

I hope the pictures help. Its difficult to put into words with just an email. Thanks in advance

[LiveOak]

Create another file, we'll call it Bids. Define a relationship matching you "Option Selected" field with a corresponding field in Bids. Define each of the fields you want filled out to perform a lookup based upon this relationship (Option button in define fields) of the correct field in the Bids file. This is a case where you want to use a lookup, rather than just displaying the fields from the Bids file, as the bids may change over time and you don't want your historical bids to be updated when they do.

-bd

[pubdss]

Thank you for the quick response.

I tried following your steps but I got a little confused. I tried setting things up slightly differently. Instead of relying on 1 field to fill in data for 5 fields, I've broken it down. If I use three fields to enter data, it should make it easier. I have set it up so that "Quantity Selected" = "Quantity", "Printer selected" = "Printer Selected" & "Printer Name". I achieved this using calculation as an option.

The only field I have left is "Option Selected" and how I will get the cost flowed in below. We normally enter a grid number such as A1 or B1 in "Option Selected" however in the actual fields we enter dollar amounts. Can I make it so I can enter an grid number in one field (Option Selected) and it will fill in the dollar amount in the "Printing Cost" field? I think what throws me off is that the data I want resourced from "Option Selected" can be from several different fields. There is not just one point of reference. Any ideas?

Thanks again for your help.