Customizing Your ServiceNow Related List: Tailoring Column Layouts Based on Field
In the dynamic world of ServiceNow, related lists are indispensable tools for providing context and facilitating efficient task management. However, the default column layouts often lack the specific information you need at a glance. This article delves into the art of customizing related list column layouts based on field values, empowering you to create highly tailored views that enhance productivity and clarity.
Why Customize Related List Column Layouts?
Imagine managing a large number of incidents. The default related list might display columns like "Number", "Priority", and "Short Description". While informative, these columns might not provide the critical details you need to prioritize your workload. Perhaps you'd prefer to see the "Assigned to" or "Status" columns instead. This is where customization comes into play.
Techniques for Customization
ServiceNow offers two main approaches to tailoring related list column layouts:
1. Using Client Scripts
Client scripts are a powerful way to dynamically alter column layouts based on field values. Let's break down how to do this:
a. Identify the Target Field
Begin by pinpointing the field whose value will determine the column configuration. For instance, you might want to change the columns displayed in the "Tasks" related list based on the "Priority" of the incident.
b. Write the Client Script
Create a client script that executes on the load event of the related list. Within the script, use the g_form.getValue('field_name') function to retrieve the value of the target field. Next, leverage the g_list.addColumn('column_name') and g_list.removeColumn('column_name') methods to add or remove columns based on the field value.
Example:
function onLoad() {
var priority = g_form.getValue('priority');
if (priority == '1') { // High Priority
g_list.addColumn('assigned_to');
g_list.removeColumn('short_description');
} else if (priority == '2') { // Medium Priority
g_list.addColumn('status');
g_list.removeColumn('number');
}
}
2. Using UI Policies
UI policies provide a simpler, declarative approach for customizing related list column layouts. Here's how it works:
a. Create a UI Policy
Define a UI policy that targets the related list you want to modify. Specify the condition based on the field whose value will trigger the layout change.
b. Configure the UI Policy Action
Within the UI policy, set the "Action" to "Change Column Layout". This action allows you to select specific columns to display or hide based on the condition you've defined.
Example:
- UI Policy Condition:
priority == 1 - UI Policy Action: "Change Column Layout"
- Select columns to be displayed: "Assigned to", "Status"
- Select columns to be hidden: "Short Description"
Advantages of Customization
- Improved Information Visibility: Tailored columns bring the most relevant information to the forefront, reducing the need to navigate through multiple fields.
- Streamlined Workflows: By prioritizing essential data, you can expedite decision-making and task execution.
- Enhanced User Experience: Users can quickly grasp critical details, leading to a more intuitive and efficient experience.
Best Practices
- Keep it Simple: Avoid overly complex logic or intricate client scripts for a clean and maintainable solution.
- Prioritize Relevance: Focus on presenting the most critical data for the specific context.
- Test Thoroughly: Always test your customizations to ensure they function as intended and do not disrupt existing functionality.
Conclusion
By embracing the power of customization, you can transform your ServiceNow related lists into highly intuitive and personalized views that empower you and your team to operate with greater efficiency and clarity. Embrace this dynamic capability and unlock the full potential of related lists within your ServiceNow environment.