ServiceNow is a highly flexible platform that enables users to customize and configure their instances according to business needs. One of the most common tools for transferring customizations between instances is Update Sets. However, not all configurations and customizations are automatically included in an update set. A frequently asked question is whether UI Pages are captured in update sets. Let’s explore this in detail.
Understanding Update Sets in ServiceNow
Update Sets are mechanisms used in ServiceNow to capture and move configuration changes between different instances, such as from development to production. They track modifications made to records in tables that support updates, ensuring that modifications can be applied consistently across environments.
What Gets Captured in Update Sets?
Not every change made in a ServiceNow instance is automatically included in an update set. Some of the most commonly captured elements include:
- Business Rules
- Script Includes
- Client Scripts
- UI Policies
- Workflows
- Data Policies
However, some configurations require manual intervention to be included, or they might need alternative methods for migration.
Are UI Pages Captured in Update Sets?
The answer is both yes and no. UI Pages, which are used to create custom user interfaces within ServiceNow, are not automatically included in an update set. Unlike business rules or script includes, UI Pages do not belong to updateable tables by default and must be explicitly tracked for migration.
How to Ensure UI Pages Are Moved?
Since UI Pages are not automatically captured in update sets, you need to manually manage their migration. Here are some methods you can use:
- Manually Add to Update Set: Navigate to the UI Page record, open the record history, and manually choose to add it to the desired update set.
- Use XML Export/Import: You can export the UI Page as an XML file and import it into another instance.
- Use Scoped Applications: If working in an application scope, packaging UI Pages within an application can be an effective way to move them.
Common Issues When Moving UI Pages
Since UI Pages involve scripting and dependencies, moving them between instances can sometimes lead to issues. Some common problems include:
- Missing Dependencies: UI Pages often depend on Script Includes, Style Sheets, or UI Actions that may not be included in the update set.
- Hardcoded Instance References: Direct references to specific instance URLs or data may cause issues when moved to a different environment.
- Security Constraints: UI Pages may have security restrictions or ACLs that need to be checked after migration.
Best Practices for Managing UI Pages in Update Sets
To ensure that UI Pages are properly migrated and function as expected in the target instance, follow these best practices:
- Track Dependencies: Make sure all related scripts, stylesheets, and configurations are included in the update set or migrated separately.
- Test After Migration: Always validate the UI Page functionality after applying the update set in the target instance.
- Use Versioning: Maintain version history within your UI Page scripts to track changes effectively.
- Consider Using Applications: If working within a scoped application, include UI Pages as part of the application package for easier migration.
Final Thoughts
While UI Pages are an essential feature for creating custom interfaces in ServiceNow, they are not automatically included in update sets. This means that administrators and developers must take extra steps to ensure their successful migration. By understanding the manual inclusion methods and following best practices, you can effectively manage UI Page transfers between instances and prevent issues during deployment.
Next time you work with UI Pages, remember to verify their presence in update sets and ensure all dependencies are properly accounted for. By doing so, you’ll streamline the customization process and avoid potential roadblocks during instance upgrades.
