Difference Between Application Repository and Update Sets in ServiceNow

[Astik Thombare]

Hi Community,

I have a quick question regarding the difference between the Application Repository and Update Sets in ServiceNow.

Based on my understanding:

The Application Repository is primarily used for moving custom scoped applications.

However, I have some doubts:

1. Can the Application Repository be used to move global applications as well, or is it strictly limited to scoped applications?

2. Applications like HRSD and CSM are scoped applications, but they are not available in Studio. How can we move such applications using the Application Repository?

Looking forward to insights and clarifications from the community.

Thanks in advance!

[Ankur Bawiskar · Accepted solution]

@Astik Thombare 

app repo is to move custom scoped apps

HRSD, CSM are not custom scoped apps, to move changes for it you can use update sets captured in respective scope and migrate

If my response helped please mark it correct and close the thread so that it benefits future readers.

[yuvarajkate]

1. Application Repository and Global Applications

• Scope: The Application Repository is primarily designed for scoped applications. Global applications cannot be directly moved through the Application Repository, as it's meant for applications developed within a specific scope.
• Global Applications: If you need to move global applications, you typically use Update Sets or Export to XML for global scope applications.

2. Moving Scoped Applications like HRSD and CSM

• Scoped Applications: While applications like HRSD and CSM are scoped applications, they aren't available in Studio for certain reasons like being pre-installed with ServiceNow. However, you can still move them using the Application Repository.
• Moving via Application Repository: You would go to System Applications > Application Repository, locate the application (e.g., HRSD or CSM), and use the "Download" option to move it from one instance to another.

[Ankur Bawiskar · Accepted solution]

@Astik Thombare 

app repo is to move custom scoped apps

HRSD, CSM are not custom scoped apps, to move changes for it you can use update sets captured in respective scope and migrate

If my response helped please mark it correct and close the thread so that it benefits future readers.

[Community Alums · Accepted solution]

Hi @Astik Thombare 

Application repository	Update set
userd for managing full applications	Used for capturing and transferring individual customizations.
installing and managing complete applications	moves configuration changes between instances
focuses on application lifecycle and version control	focus on custom changes and deployment

Studio is not available for managing these applications directly, you can install or upgrade them using the Application Repository.

• Log into your ServiceNow instance.
• In the Application Navigator, go to System Applications > All Applications.
• Search for the HRSD or CSM application.
• If the application is not yet installed, you can Install it by selecting the Install button in the record of the application.
• If an upgrade is needed (for example, if the application is already installed but a newer version is available), the option to Upgrade will appear.

If you’ve made customizations to the HRSD or other application (e.g., custom forms, UI actions, etc.), you’ll likely need to use Update Sets to move those changes between instances.