Negative Numbers in "Identity" or" Autonumber" fields

Any thought's on using negative numbers as surrogate primary keys?

Working with some folks who are of the opinion that using ranges such as -1,-2,-3 is appropriate for surrogate keys for code tables.

I'm of the opinion that this is impractical, as, you can't show someone -1 apples or -1 cars (or whatever you are identifying...).

Not seen this before.

I realize, as long as these values meet the criteria of being a Primary Key (that is unique and not null) there is no problem (technically) with this approach.

Thought on this approach as a matter of form?

Thanks for the feedback.

T. Received on Mon Mar 19 2007 - 14:08:22 CDT