what is difference between change type and chage model in service now?

[pavani_paluri · Accepted solution]

Hi @ayushup ,

In ServiceNow, a Change Type defines the category of change (Standard, Normal, Emergency), while a Change Model is a reusable template that pre‑defines the workflow, approvals, and tasks for a specific kind of change request. In short: type = classification, model = blueprint/template

For more details, Please check below:

Solved: Change Types vs. Change Models - ServiceNow Community

Mark it helpful if this helps you to understand. Accept solution if this give you the answer you're looking for

Kind Regards,

Pavani P

[Aditya40 · Accepted solution]

Change Type

Definition:

Change Type defines the risk and approval path of a change. It categorizes a change based on its urgency, impact, and standardization.

Key Points:

Determines the process and workflow a change will follow.

Helps in identifying how a change should be handled in terms of approval and CAB review.

Standard Change Types in ServiceNow:

Change Type Description

Standard Change Pre-approved, low-risk, repeatable change (e.g., software update, password reset).

Normal Change Requires approval and CAB review. Follows normal workflow.

Emergency Change High urgency, critical impact. Can bypass normal approvals to restore service quickly.

Example:

Restarting a server automatically every Monday → Standard Change

Upgrading the database → Normal Change

Production server crashed, immediate fix → Emergency Change

2️⃣ Change Model

Definition:

Change Model defines how a particular type of change is executed in ServiceNow. It is essentially a predefined workflow for a change.

Key Points:

Can be linked to any change type.

Defines steps, approvals, notifications for that change.

Helps standardize changes, especially if many changes follow the same process.

Standard Change Models in ServiceNow:

Change Model Description

ITIL Standard Model For changes that require CAB approval, multiple tasks, or scheduled steps.

Emergency Model For urgent changes, bypassing normal approvals.

Standard Model For routine pre-approved changes with minimal steps.

Example:

Change Type: Normal

Change Model: ITIL Standard Change Model

Steps: Review → CAB Approval → Implement → Test → Close

Change Type: Standard

Change Model: Standard Change Model

Steps: Implement → Close (No approval required)