6 Hidden Features of ServiceNow To Streamline Your Work

ServiceNow is a cloud-based platform that offers a wide range of services to streamline various business processes. It is an all-in-one solution that provides IT service management, IT operations management, and enterprise applications. With its versatility and ease of use, ServiceNow has become a popular choice for organizations looking to streamline their operations.
However, despite its widespread popularity, many users are unaware of the hidden features that make ServiceNow even more powerful. In this article, we will explore some of the top hidden features of ServiceNow that can make your job easier and more efficient. Whether you’re a seasoned user or just starting out, these features will enhance your experience and make your workflows smoother.
Table of Contents
- Hidden Feature #1: Keyboard Shortcuts
- Hidden Feature #2: Custom UI Pages
- Hidden Feature #3: UI Policies and UI Actions
- Hidden Feature #4: Advanced Search and Reporting
- Hidden Feature #5: Automated Workflows
- Hidden Feature #6: Personalized Homepages
- Conclusion
Hidden Feature #1: Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts are an essential ServiceNow feature that allows users to quickly access commonly used functions and features. By using keyboard shortcuts, users can save time and increase their efficiency while using the platform.
List of common keyboard shortcuts:
Some of the most commonly used keyboard shortcuts in ServiceNow include
“Ctrl + E” for a quick search
“Ctrl + N” for creating a new record
“Ctrl + S” for saving a record.
“Ctrl + F” for finding text within a record
“Ctrl + Shift + F” for finding and replacing text within a record
“Ctrl + Alt + S” for opening the system menu
“Alt + Shift + T” for opening the list of recent tasks
“Ctrl + Alt + N” for creating a new incident
“Ctrl + Alt + R” for creating a new request
“Ctrl + Alt + P” for creating a new problem
“Ctrl + Alt + C” for creating a new change
“Ctrl + Alt + K” for creating a new knowledge article
Users can navigate to the “Keyboard Shortcuts” section in the ServiceNow settings to view a complete list of keyboard shortcuts.
Hidden Feature #2: Custom UI Pages
Custom UI pages in ServiceNow allow users to create unique user interfaces for specific tasks and processes. These custom pages can include custom forms, lists, and even scripts, providing a high level of user customization and control.
These pages offer several benefits, including improved user experience, enhanced process efficiency, and reduced errors. Additionally, custom UI pages can be tailored to specific departments or teams, ensuring each team has the tools and information needed to do their job effectively.
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How to create custom UI pages
To create a custom UI page in ServiceNow, users can navigate to the “UI Pages” section of the platform and select “New.” From there, users can choose a UI page type, specify the page name, and configure the page properties. Once the page is created, users can add components such as forms, lists, and scripts and preview their work. Users can greatly enhance their ServiceNow experience and streamline their workflows with custom UI pages.
Hidden Feature #3: UI Policies and UI Actions
UI policies and UI actions in ServiceNow are powerful tools that allow users to control the platform’s behavior based on specific conditions and events. UI policies can be used to enforce data validation, control field visibility and mandatory status, and more. On the other hand, UI actions allow users to create custom actions for records, such as custom buttons or context menu items.
UI policies and UI actions provide several benefits, including improved data accuracy, enhanced process efficiency, and increased control over the platform. Additionally, UI policies and UI actions can be used to automate repetitive tasks and streamline workflows, reducing the risk of errors and freeing up valuable time for other tasks.
How to create UI policies and UI actions
To create a UI policy or UI action in ServiceNow, users can navigate to the “UI Policies” or “UI Actions” sections of the platform, respectively, and select “New.” From there, users can specify the policy or action name, configure the properties, and specify any conditions or scripts as needed. Users can greatly improve their ServiceNow experience and work more efficiently with UI policies and UI actions.
Hidden Feature #4: Advanced Search and Reporting
The advanced search and reporting features in ServiceNow provide users with powerful tools for searching and analyzing data. Advanced search allows users to search for records using various criteria, including keywords, field values, and dates. On the other hand, reporting allows users to generate detailed reports and dashboards, providing valuable insights into key metrics and trends.
They offer several benefits, including improved data visibility, enhanced decision-making, and increased process efficiency. Users can work more effectively and make better-informed decisions by providing quick and easy access to the data they need.
How to create advanced search and reports
To create an advanced search or report in ServiceNow, users can navigate to the “Search” or “Reports” sections of the platform, respectively, and select “New.” Users can specify the search or report criteria, configure any necessary options, and preview the results. With advanced search and reporting, users can greatly improve their ServiceNow experience and gain valuable insights into their data.
Hidden Feature #5: Automated Workflows
Automated workflows in ServiceNow allow users to automate repetitive and time-consuming tasks, reducing the risk of errors and freeing up valuable time for other tasks. Automated workflows are created using a simple drag-and-drop interface and can include a wide range of actions, such as record updates, notifications, and more.
Increased productivity, reduced errors, and improved process efficiency is just a few advantages of automated workflows. By automating routine tasks, users can focus on more important tasks and work more effectively.
How to create automated workflows
To create an automated workflow in ServiceNow, users can navigate to the “Workflow Editor” section of the platform and select “New.” From there, users can specify the workflow name and add the necessary steps, such as record updates, approvals, or notifications. With automated workflows, users can streamline their workflows and improve their overall ServiceNow experience.
Hidden Feature #6: Personalized Homepages
Personalized homepages in ServiceNow allow users to create a customized and optimized experience for their work. Personalized homepages can include widgets and gadgets, such as lists of records, calendars, and reports, that can be tailored to the user’s specific needs.
Improvements in productivity, visibility, and user experience are just a few advantages of personalized homepages. By creating a customized experience, users can easily access the information and tools they need to be most effective.
How to create personalized homepages
To create a personalized homepage in ServiceNow, users can navigate to the “Homepages” section of the platform and select “New.” From there, users can add widgets and gadgets, arrange them to their preferences, and customize their appearance as desired. With personalized homepages, users can create a tailored experience that makes their work more efficient and enjoyable.
Conclusion
This article has explored six hidden features of ServiceNow that can make a user’s job easier. These features include keyboard shortcuts, custom UI pages, UI policies, and UI actions, advanced search and reporting, automated workflows, and personalized homepages.
These features are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the full capabilities of ServiceNow. By exploring these and other features, users can improve their experience and work more effectively.
The full power of ServiceNow can only be unlocked by continuously exploring and utilizing its many features. The more a user understands and leverages the platform, the more they will be able to accomplish and the better their experience will be.
Author Bio:
Zaid is a Digital Marketer, and a passionate writer, who is working with Tekslate, a top global online training provider. He also holds in-depth knowledge of IT and demanding technologies such as Business Intelligence, Salesforce, Cybersecurity, Software Testing, QA, Data Analytics, Project Management and ERP tools, etc.