There are only three shipping companies in the Northwind database. By default, the web application generator renders the ShipVia field as a lookup.

A lookup is very useful when there is a long list of options, as it offers sorting, filtering, and quick find. In this situation, the lookup is just a hindrance to the user. Let’s change this lookup to a drop down list.

In the Project Explorer, switch to the Controllers tab. Double-click on Orders / Fields / ShipVia (Int32) –> Shippers node.

Change the following settings:

Press OK to save. Press Browse, and wait for the page to load. If you edit an order, you will see that Ship Via Company Name field is now a drop down list.