“You can’t modify the structure of the table “Orders” because it is already in use by another person or process.”

I’ve been trying to use this template for my database. I’m trying to change a field in the table Orders from a text field to a lookup field. The Orders table is actually bound to a Form’s field. But I’ve changed the name and label of the field on the form already.

What’s causing this message?

(By the way, the template is one I’ve gotten off of HighTechCoach’s sight—the OrdersEntry Template. Thanks, HiTech.)

Before making any table design changes, make sure to close all open forms, just to be safe.


Before you make that change at the table level, see this:

The Evils of Lookup Fields in Tables



I would say: Don't do it!

Ok, if not from the table level, then what about from the form directly.

I'm familiar with adding a combo box to an existing form but less so in converting an existing field on a form into one.

Try using the combo box wizard from the tool box.

Check the Relationship settings. If the Orders Table is linked with other table(s) in the Relationship settings then delete them first. Modify the structure of the Table and then re-establish the relationships.

Do you really need to delete a relationship just to add a field?

The original issue was:
[quote]
“You can’t modify the structure of the table “Orders” because it is already in use by another person or process.”
[/quopte]
This is normally caused becaused a form, report, query, etc. has the table in use.

Why not just close the object(s). Do you really need to delete the relationship aslo?

i know this is a almost 2 years old thread, but i've got the same error and didn't found a solution on internet, instead I found that the bug was in the office package. I've downloaded another kit and the problem was solved.