How to check the existing functionality for, when we create a reference type variable?

[sonali bhagat]

How to check the existing functionality for, when we create a reference type variable which column will be shown when we select a particular record?

[R1R3]

In ServiceNow, the specific column that is displayed when you select a particular record is typically determined by the "Display Value" field, which is associated with reference fields. Here's how you can check the existing functionality for a reference type variable in ServiceNow:

1. **Navigate to the Table:**
- Log in to your ServiceNow instance.
- Navigate to the table that contains the reference field. This is the table where you want to check the display value for a particular record.

2. **Identify the Reference Field:**
- Locate the reference field in the table. Reference fields in ServiceNow are typically marked by a magnifying glass icon .

3. **Check the Reference Field Configuration:**
- Right-click on the header of the reference field and select "Configure Dictionary."
- Look for the "Reference" field in the dictionary configuration. The "Reference" field specifies the target table for the reference field.

4. **Check Reference Field Mapping:**
- In the dictionary configuration, check for the "Reference Qualifier" field. This field may contain a script that filters the available records for the reference field.
- Additionally, check for the "Ref Qual Element" field, which specifies the field on the target table used for filtering records.

5. **Examine Reference Field Properties:**
- While still in the dictionary configuration, check for the "Display" field. This field specifies the field on the referenced table whose value will be displayed when referencing this record.

6. **Inspect the Form Layout:**
- Go to the form layout for the table.
- Check the form sections that contain the reference field. The "Display Value" field associated with the reference field will determine which column is shown when you select a particular record.

7. **Test with Records:**
- Create or open a record in the table and observe which column is displayed. The display value should correspond to the field specified in the "Display" field of the reference field configuration.

8. **Review Business Rules and UI Policies:**
- Check if there are any business rules or UI policies associated with the table or the reference field. These could impact the display of records.

If you have trouble finding the information or if your ServiceNow instance has been customized extensively, consider reaching out to your ServiceNow administrator or developer for assistance. They may be able to provide insights into any specific configurations or customizations in your instance.

[Harish KM]

Hi @sonali bhagat Reference field will always show the column where display value is set true for that column.

In case if you want to show other column names, you can select lookup select box variable type and select the column you want to show on catalog form

[sonali bhagat]

where can i check the display value is true, in which table or form or module? 

[Harish KM · Accepted solution]

Hi @sonali bhagat you can check in the dictionary module. There is a field called "display value"