I'm trying to contextually assign different value lists to the same (global) field for search purposes. Using the calculation "ValueListItems" I can assign different value lists to the same field. The problem I'm having is that I want the global search field to display as a drop down list with auto-complete. But the only way I see to make this field as a drop down with auto-complete is in layout mode. When this is done a value list must also be assigned, which prevents using a script to contextually assign a different value list to that field.

Is there a calculation or scripting method that can make the global search field as a drop down field with auto-complete?

Or is there any other way to be able to have a drop down field with auto-complete that different value lists are contextually assigned to?

I'm sure (or at least hope) that there's some simple method that I'm missing. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

As you said; a value list must be assigned to a field in layout mode. It cannot be assigned contextually via script.

A possible solution would be a value list based on a related table. This allows the item's contained in the value list to change, rather than assigning a different value list. If you wanted to change the contents of the value list via script, you could set a field value that the relationship is based on. If you were using custom value lists, you will need to enter them in a table as data.

Let us know if you are able to get this setup working.