Impact on modifying field type of "Environment" field

[MarkoMsnow]

Hello,

The purpose is to change the field type of "Environment" field of Configuration Item [cmdb_ci] table, from "String" field (standard) to a "Reference" field.

I would like to know if there is any impact on any standard OOB process/flow in ServiceNow (Vancouver) ?

If so, how can I find them ?

Thank you.

Marko

[Julien Dumouli2]

Anyone to advise on this topic ?

[Dr Atul G- LNG]

Hi @MarkoMsnow 

You want to change the behaviour of OOTB field that is not recommended, as it will impact on all child tables. May I know why you want to change the data type?

Also it impact on foundation data as well. 

[Julien Dumouli2]

Hi Atul,

Thanks for providing some hints. I'm working with Marko, that's why I can reply to your post.

I know that the field is OOB and I would prefer not changing it. However, in our case we have... 25 environments ! The customer would like to show the environment and a description next to the environment (in a popup showing a table of records), so that the itil user can find his way and choose the right environment.

From my perspective, changing it wouldn't be that impactful, because the field doesn't seem to be used anywhere, nor populated automatically by a process. 

Could you please elaborate on the impact you would see if we change it from a choice field type to a reference to a table field type ?

Best regards

[Dr Atul G- LNG]

Hi @Julien Dumouli2 

Greetings!! 

Hope doing well.

Thanks for sharing more detail.  if you change the choice to reference , it will / can be create issue at time of upgrade or in case SN change some logic / enhance logic in future on same field that can be issue.

I still recommend better to create a new field instead changing the data type. Also please get in touch with your ServiceNow support team from SN only to get more clarity.