Jira Custom Fields

Understanding Custom Fields:

Jira’s default fields may cover general project information, but custom fields enable you to capture data unique to your organization’s workflow. These fields can be added to issues, screens, and reports, providing a personalized touch to your Jira instance.

Adding Custom Fields:

1. Navigate to Jira Settings:
   • Log in to your Jira account and access the Jira settings. This is usually done by clicking on your profile picture and selecting “Jira settings.”
2. Select Issues > Custom Fields:
   • Within the settings, navigate to the “Issues” section and select “Custom Fields” from the dropdown menu.
3. Click on ‘Add Custom Field’:
   • Look for the “Add Custom Field” button. Click on it to start the process of creating a new custom field.
4. Choose the Type of Custom Field:
   • Jira offers various custom field types, such as text, number, date, and more. Choose the type that aligns with the data you want to capture.
5. Configure Field Details:
   • Configure the field details, including a name, description, and any applicable options. Ensure that the field is applicable to the relevant issue types and projects.
6. Add to Screens and Screenschemes:
   • Associate the custom field with screens and screenschemes to control where and when it appears in Jira.
7. Save the Custom Field:
   • Once configured, save the custom field. It is now ready for use in your Jira projects.

Utilizing Custom Fields:

1. Add Custom Fields to Screens:
   • Edit your screens to include the newly created custom fields. This ensures they are visible and editable when working with issues.
2. Include Custom Fields in Reports:
   • When generating reports, include custom fields to provide a comprehensive view of project data.
3. Use Custom Fields for Filtering:
   • Leverage custom fields when creating filters to narrow down and focus on specific sets of issues.
4. Integrate with Workflows:
   • Integrate custom fields into your workflows to capture and track information as issues progress through different stages.

Tips for Effective Custom Field Management:

1. Keep it Simple:
   • Start with a few essential custom fields. Adding too many can clutter your interface.
2. Regularly Review and Update:
   • Periodically review your custom fields to ensure they align with evolving project needs. Remove any fields that are no longer relevant.
3. Train Your Team:
   • Educate your team on the purpose and usage of custom fields to encourage consistent data entry.
4. Document Field Definitions:
   • Maintain documentation that outlines the purpose and expected values for each custom field to ensure clarity.