Lookup with Picker Data Type for a SharePoint List

While researching the issue I mentioned in my previous post, I ran across this neat thing at CodePlex: http://www.codeplex.com/lookupwithpicker/Wiki/View.aspx.  Here’s the brief description:

Microsoft Sharepoint Server 2007 lookup control with element picker for custom list.
This control is useful if you need to choose lookup data from large lists. This control supports single and multi select mode.

I haven’t downloaded it, so I can’t vouch for its specific implementation, but it’s something that I’ve been meaning to look into.  Most folks don’t realize that they can create custom Data Type controls for use in their SharePoint lists.  Now, I wouldn’t recommend going out and developing a custom control for every little thing, but if you have some Data Types that are very commonly used across your Web Application, this is an option that you should definitely look into.

This particular custom control looks like it would be useful in selecting from any long list with text values.  You might also consider a custom control if you need to look up images or something that feels clunky using one of the existing set of control options.