Unable to change type of a table column.

[Mouktik_B]

I have a column inside a table of integer type but can't change its type. Only integer shows up when I try to change the type. what could be solution?

[Bhimashankar H · Accepted solution]

Hi @Mouktik_B ,

You won't be able to change the data type once column is created for your scenario. Here best to create new column with your specified data type.

If you want to retain the data then using bg script or fix script you can move/copy the data in your new column, apply proper data type conversion when data moving. Later based on your need either keep for any future use or delete the column.

Thanks,
Bhimashankar H

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[Dr Atul G- LNG]

Hi @Mouktik_B If you have only limited data, it’s better to identify the fields and create a new data type. Before you delete anything, make sure to take a backup of the data. Then you can safely delete the field. Please note that this will impact any scripts where the field has been used.

[Dr Atul G- LNG]

Hi @Mouktik_B 

Any thought on this?

[Shashank_Jain]

@Mouktik_B ,

• Why you can’t change it: Once a column is created as integer, ServiceNow doesn’t allow changing it to another type (only limited safe conversions are possible).

• Solutions:

  1. Best practice → Create a new field with the correct type, migrate data, and retire the old field.

[Shashank_Jain]

@Mouktik_B ,

If the solution was helpful , can you please accept the solution and close the thread. That will be much appreciated.