Hi Everyone,
I'm excited to share that I recently hosted my first ServiceNow developer meetup!
Deciding on a session topic proved to be more challenging than I expected. Having such a vast ServiceNow ecosystem to draw from presented a wealth of options, making it difficult to narrow down one topic.
After much deliberation and discussions, I decided to focus on the fundamentals. After all, a strong foundation is crucial in any field, and often, it's the core concepts that we sometimes overlook.
So, I made a list of things I wish I knew when I started with ServiceNow and here they are -
ServiceNow not SNOW 😄
This one's a bit funny! 😄
It turns out, when referring to ServiceNow, it's "ServiceNow" or "SN," not "SNow". I learnt this when I saw the below meme! (Oops)
For all the new folks out there, using the correct terminology can definitely help you appear more familiar with the platform. But hey, this is a good reminder that experienced folks can also learn something new!
Master the basics
To excel in ServiceNow, it is crucial to start by mastering the basics.
Grasping the structure of tables and fields, managing users, groups, and roles, basic scripting, including client-side scripting, server-side scripting and proficiency in reporting and dashboards is fundamental for automating tasks and enhancing functionality.
By mastering these basics, you will build a solid foundation, enabling you to tackle more complex tasks and projects successfully.
Choose efficiency: Work Smarter, Not Harder
Many ServiceNow users leverage the platform's core functionalities, but there's a treasure trove of built-in and external tools waiting to be explored.
The ones I use the most are Script Debugger, SNUtils, Xplore, and the comprehensive logging system. Do give these a try and I promise they can truly elevate your ServiceNow experience.
(L-R) Script debugger, SNUtils, Xplore
The Power of Documentation
Documentation in ServiceNow isn't just about keeping track of tasks.
It's a memory booster, interview prep tool, and networking cred builder – all rolled into one.
Clear documentation showcases your expertise, fosters trust with clients, and positions you as a ServiceNow thought leader. By investing in documentation, you're investing in your professional brand and future success.
Customization vs. Configuration
ServiceNow empowers you to sculpt the platform to your organization's specific needs. But with great power comes great responsibility 😄
To customize or to configure?
Understanding the merits and demerits of each option is the key to choosing wisely. This exploration will equip you to strike the perfect balance. An exploration we must actively strive for.
Embrace New Releases
The world of ServiceNow is constantly evolving, with new releases every six months, introducing a wave of features and functionalities.
While change can sometimes feel daunting, these updates are designed to empower you. Embracing new ServiceNow releases can be the key to unlocking greater efficiency and being up to date.
Don't be afraid to ask for help
In any learning journey or professional endeavour, it's essential to remember that asking for help is a sign of strength. Whether you're dealing with complex ServiceNow configurations, encountering challenging problems, or navigating new features, reaching out to colleagues, mentors, or online communities can provide valuable insights and solutions. So, don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it; it's a crucial step toward continuous improvement and achieving your goals.
Network and Build your brand
The ServiceNow community thrives on collaboration and knowledge sharing.
LinkedIn provides a powerful platform to connect with fellow enthusiasts, showcase your expertise, and even unlock exciting opportunities.
Whether you aspire to become a ServiceNow MVP (Most Valuable Professional), Rising Star, or simply contribute to the community, building a strong brand for yourself is the key.
Balance: Prioritizing Work, Play, and Rest
Life's a balancing act, but not a 50/50 split.
Work, play, and rest all deserve attention, but the proportions shift depending on the season. Identifying your current needs and creating a rhythm that keeps you energized, not exhausted brings that balance that we all need and crave for.
These are just a few things I wish I knew starting out with ServiceNow.
Now it's your turn! What hidden gems or early learnings would you share with fellow newbies? Hit the comments and let's build a knowledge base together.
