Difference in client scripts and catalog scripts

[GowthamGr]

Brief explination about client and catalog client scripts 

[Dr Atul G- LNG · Accepted solution]

Client Scripts and catalog Client Scripts are virtually the exact same sort of script. The differences are that client scripts execute against a form with a certain type of record, whereas catalog Client Scripts execute against a certain catalog item or variable set within a catalog item.

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/servicenow-space_servicenow-servicenowspace-learning-activity-7413207...

[yashkamde · Accepted solution]

Hello @GowthamGr ,

There is nothing a much difference between them,

In short : Client Scripts apply to standard forms across the platform, while Catalog Client Scripts are tailored for Service Catalog item forms. Both are powerful tools to improve usability and enforce business rules at the client side.

If my response helped mark as helpful and accept the solution.

[SohamTipnis · Accepted solution]

Hi @GowthamGr,

In ServiceNow, a Client Script is used to control how a form behaves when a user is working on it. It runs in the browser and helps with things like making fields mandatory, setting them to read-only, validating inputs, or showing messages based on user actions. For example, you can make the “Close Notes” field mandatory when an Incident is being resolved.

A Catalog Client Script, on the other hand, works specifically for Service Catalog items. It controls the behavior of catalog variables (like dropdowns, checkboxes, or text fields) inside a catalog item. For example, you can show additional configuration options only when a user selects “Request New Laptop.”

In simple terms, both control form behavior — but Client Scripts are for normal forms, while Catalog Client Scripts are for catalog items.

Simple Difference

• Client Script => Works on standard forms (Incident, Problem, etc.)

• Catalog Client Script => Works only on Service Catalog items

If you find my answer useful, please mark it as Helpful and Correct. ‌‌‌‌‌😊

Regards,
Soham Tipnis
ServiceNow Developer ||  Technical Consultant
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sohamtipnis10

[Aditya_hublikar · Accepted solution]

Hello @GowthamGr ,

A Client Script is used to control the behavior of form fields on standard tables (like Incident, Change, or custom tables) directly in the user’s browser. It helps with tasks such as validation, auto-filling values, making fields mandatory, showing messages, or hiding fields to improve user experience.

A Catalog Client Script works specifically on Service Catalog items . It is used to control catalog variables instead of table fields, allowing dynamic behavior like showing/hiding variables, validating user input, or setting default values during catalog request submission.

If this helps you then mark it as helpful and accept as solution.

Regards,

Aditya

[its_SumitNow]

Hi @GowthamGr 

Both  Client Scripts and Catalog Client Scripts carry same functionality which is it works on UI level, & one more point to note is onCellEdit function is available only in client scripts not in catalog client script

I hope it helps, if helped kindly mark helpful & Accept as Solution 🙂

Regards

Sumit

[Abhishek_W]

Hi @GowthamGr 

Difference between Client Scripts and Catalog Client Scripts (ServiceNow):

• Client Scripts: Run on any table/form (incident, change, etc.). Types: onLoad, onChange, onSubmit, onCellEdit. Stored in sys_script_client.

• Catalog Client Scripts: Service Catalog only (items/variable sets). Types: onLoad, onChange, onSubmit (no onCellEdit). Stored in catalog_script_client. Applies to Catalog form + sc_task + RITM variables  
  
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[Prathmeshda]

Hello @GowthamGr 
1) CLIENT SCRIPTS

These exist on standard tables (Incident or Problem, for example).
They are designed to handle data that already exists in your database.

Use these scripts when you want to control how a record form works, such as making fields required, read-only, or hiding and showing fields dynamically. It will target "Fields."

2)CATALOG CLIENT SCRIPTS

These exist in the Service Catalog.
They enable the “shopping” experience.

Use these scripts when a user is making a new request, such as ordering a laptop, requesting software access, or making a service request.It will target "Variables."

If you found this article useful, please mark it as Helpful. It helps others find the content more easily 👍

[VaishnaviK3009]

Hi @GowthamGr !!

Client Scripts

• Run on the client-side (user’s browser).

• Used to control form behavior, like:

  • Show/hide fields

  • Make fields mandatory

  • Validate data before submission

• Types: onLoad, onChange, onSubmit, onCellEdit.

Catalog Client Scripts

• Specific to Service Catalog items.

• Run in the Service Catalog form (when ordering items).

• Can control variables, validate user input, and dynamically update the form.

• Types: onLoad, onChange, onSubmit (similar to client scripts but for catalog items).

Mark this as Helpful if it clarifies the issue.
Accept the solution if this answers your question.

Regards,
Vaishnavi
Technical Consultant