can I refer to a file for a drop down menu?

[jamesstorx]

I am creating a template and need to have multiple drop down menus. I can get the drop down menus working with no problemas, until I copy the template into another workbook. Is it possible to have the drop down refer to the original ranges in the original workbook? or is this just wishfull thinking...

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[Norie]

James

Couldn't you actually include the data in the the other workbook?

[jamesstorx]

this might help. I have to insert the template information into the master. The master data is constantly changing and the value for each row is never the same.

[Norie]

James

Why 2 seperate files?

And why not use an actual template ie an xlt file?

[protonLeah]

A limited workaround would be to use hidden columns in your template
that are then linked to the source data in your masterfile. Then the
dropdowns on the template can use the hidden template columns for the
validation lists. However, I think the masterfile would have to be open
whenever the template is open for that sol'n to work.