Setting Default List Columns in ServiceNow: A Comprehensive Guide
- kelly.ryu
- Mar 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 29
In ServiceNow, maintaining consistent and efficient data presentation is crucial for user productivity. One common requirement is to establish default list columns for tables, ensuring all users view relevant information without needing to personalize their settings. This article provides a detailed guide on how to configure default list columns in ServiceNow, addressing common challenges and offering practical solutions. Whether you are a system administrator or a developer, understanding this process will streamline your ServiceNow experience.
The need to set default list columns arises when organizations want to standardize the information displayed to users across various tables. Instead of relying on individual user preferences, administrators can configure the default layout, ensuring uniformity and efficiency.
Understanding the Process
The core method for setting default list columns involves utilizing the "List Layout" configuration. Here's a step-by-step breakdown:
Access the List: Navigate to the desired table list in ServiceNow.
Configure List Layout: Right-click on the list header. Select "Configure" and then "List Layout." This action opens the List Layout configuration interface.
Select and Order Columns: Within the List Layout interface, you can add, remove, and reorder the columns that will be displayed by default. Move the desired fields from the "Available" slushbucket to the "Selected" slushbucket. The order in which they appear in the "Selected" slushbucket determines their display order in the list.
Save Changes: Once you have configured the desired columns, save the changes. This action sets the new default list layout for all users.
Practical Examples and Use Cases
Consider an incident management scenario. You might want to ensure that all users viewing incident records see the "Number," "Short description," "Assigned to," and "State" columns by default. By following the steps outlined above, you can establish this layout, promoting consistency and clarity.
Another use case involves change management. By setting default columns such as "Number," "Short description," "Change state," and "Assigned to," you can provide a standardized view that helps users quickly assess the status of change requests.
Role Requirements and Considerations
Access to configure list layouts is typically restricted to users with the "admin" role or the "personalize_list" role. The condition that enables the Configure -> List Layout menu item is:
gs.hasRightsTo('ui/configure.personalize_list/write', null) && (ListProperties.hasListMechanic() || ListProperties.getView() == 'sys_ref_list')
Therefore, ensuring users have the appropriate roles is essential for managing default list columns.
User Personalization and Resetting Defaults
While you can set default list columns, users still have the option to personalize their list views. If a user personalizes their list and wishes to revert to the default layout, they can use the "Reset to column defaults" option.
Alternative Solutions
Although "List Layout" is the primary method, you can also consider system UI lists, specifically "System UI -> Lists". This allows for the review of user preferences, and potentially the removal of specific preferences if it is determined to be needed. However, the standard method of list layout is the most effective way to change the default for all users.
Configuring default list columns in ServiceNow is a straightforward process that enhances user experience and ensures data consistency. By utilizing the "List Layout" configuration, administrators can establish standardized views across various tables.
Actionable Next Steps
Review Existing List Layouts: Examine the current list layouts for key tables in your ServiceNow instance.
Identify Required Columns: Determine the essential columns that should be displayed by default for each table.
Configure List Layouts: Implement the necessary changes using the steps outlined in this article.
Verify Changes: Ensure that the default list columns are correctly displayed for all users.
Communicate Changes: Inform users about the new default list layouts and how to personalize their views if needed.
