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AnyDB Lookup Cell

The Lookup cell type allows you to display data from a linked record inside the current record.

Instead of duplicating information, a Lookup cell reads a value from a related record and displays it dynamically. When the source record updates, the Lookup cell updates automatically.

Lookup cells are commonly used in:

  • CRM systems (show Company Name inside a Deal)
  • Order management (show Customer Address inside an Order)
  • Asset tracking (show Location Name from a linked Location record)
  • Vendor management (show Vendor Risk Score inside Contracts)

How Lookup Works​

A Lookup cell:

  1. Selects an existing Linked Record cell
  2. Chooses a specific field from the linked record
  3. Displays that field inside the current record

Lookup Cell Example

Under the hood, the Lookup cell uses a DYNREF() formula to dynamically reference the related record.

Example internal formula:

=DYNREF(A1, {{Name}})

However, users do not need to write formulas manually. The Lookup configuration handles this automatically.

Configuration Options​

When configuring a Lookup cell, you will specify:

  • Reference – The Linked Record cell to use
  • Cell – The field from the linked record to display

Once configured, the Lookup cell behaves like a live mirror of that field.

Automatic Updates​

Lookup cells are reactive.

If the linked record changes:

  • The Lookup cell updates automatically
  • No manual refresh is required
  • Data remains consistent across records

This ensures a single source of truth across your system.

Why Use Lookup Instead of Copying Data?​

Copying values between records creates:

  • Data duplication
  • Sync issues
  • Manual maintenance
  • Inconsistent reporting

Lookup keeps data connected.

You store information once and display it wherever needed.

Practical Example​

Scenario: Deal linked to Company​

  • A Deal record links to a Company record
  • The Company record contains:
    • Name
    • Industry
    • Risk Level

Inside the Deal, you can add Lookup cells to display:

  • Company Name
  • Industry
  • Risk Level

If the Company changes its Risk Level, all related Deals immediately reflect the update.

Best Practices​

  • Use Lookup for display-only related data
  • Use Linked Record cells to define relationships
  • Avoid duplicating important data across records
  • Combine Lookup with Automation to trigger workflows based on related values