Re-using a value across multiple Word documents that use Content Control

Tim Huff 25 Reputation points
2025-06-06T13:16:02.6566667+00:00

We have a template that we use for Modification Travelers at our facility. We have a field that is content controlled for our modification (mod) number. This number is usually made up of our Product number plus a 4-digit number. Usually, we have the 4-digit number already available when we are ready to prepare the document, but in some cases we do not. We still need to create the document and have the product number assigned to this field, but if we have more than one mod traveler for this project that hasn't been assigned a 4-digit number, then we get an error message stating we are using a duplicate mod number.

Is there an option that can be turned off to allow duplicate numbers in this field for multiple documents?

Regards,

Tim H.

Word Management
Word Management
Word: A family of Microsoft word processing software products for creating web, email, and print documents.Management: The act or process of organizing, handling, directing or controlling something.
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  1. Jack-Bu 1,160 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2025-06-06T15:11:33.69+00:00

    Hi Tim Huff 

    Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A forum.  

    I understand that you're encountering an error about duplicate "mod numbers" when creating multiple documents from your template, particularly when the final 4-digit number isn't available yet.  

    The 'duplicate value' check you are experiencing is not a standard feature within Microsoft Word itself; However, based on my research into this, let me offer a temporary solution so you can fix the immediate error and continue with your work: 

    Instead of using the exact same placeholder (e.g., just ProductNumber) for all documents, you can add a temporary for each document. For example:  ProductNumber-TEMP1; ProductNumber-TEMP2; ProductNumber-TEMP3 

    This approach will satisfy the system's requirement for a unique entry, allowing you to create and save all your documents without an error. You can then go back and replace these temporary placeholders with the final, correct "mod numbers" once you have them. 

    However, as a forum moderator, my ability to assist is limited to general guidance, I don’t have access to backend tools or system-level diagnostics needed to fully investigate this issue. For a more long-term solution, I kindly suggest that you escalate this matter by submitting a service request through the Microsoft 365 Admin Center for the most efficient help: 

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    I appreciate your understanding and patience in this matter. Please know that I have done my best to assist you within the scope of my capabilities.  


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    1 person found this answer helpful.

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