Why is Topic field restricted from template?

[OlaN]

Hi,

I encountered a request in one of my customers to create a template [sys_template] to a knowledge article [kb_knowledge], and to set the "topic" field as part of the template.

As it turns out, topic is one of the fields restricted by ACLs to be set by a template.

https://<instance>.service-now.com/now/nav/ui/classic/params/target/sys_security_acl.do%3Fsys_id%3Df...

So my question is why?
Does anyone have insights as to why this field is restricted from templates?
I can understand why most other fields (such as sys*-fields) are restricted, but the topic seems like it should be legit.

Tried to get some insights from the community and the Docs, but no luck.

[Matthew_13]

Im not sure if this ever got replied to but here is my take:

The topic field in Knowledge articles is indeed often restricted by ACLs, including when setting values via templates. This is usually done to maintain data integrity and control over key classification fields that impact reporting, routing, and article lifecycle.

Since topics help categorize articles and drive workflows or audience targeting, ServiceNow restricts certain ways to update it like via templates to prevent unintended changes that might cause confusion or misrouting.

That said, if your business case requires setting the topic via a template, you could consider:

- Reviewing and adjusting the ACLs carefully with security in mind to allow template updates for your use case.

- Using a scripted approach business rule or script include that runs with elevated privileges to set the topic on creation.

It’s definitely understandable to expect that templates could set the topic, but the restriction is there mostly for governance reasons.

Hope that helps! 

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