Creating Custom Fields in Jira
Introduction
Custom fields in Jira allow you to capture and track specific data that is unique to your projects. This tutorial will guide you through the process of creating custom fields, from start to finish, with detailed explanations and examples.
Step 1: Access Jira Administration
To create custom fields, you need to have Jira administrator privileges. Follow these steps to access the administration area:
1. Log in to your Jira instance.
2. Click on the gear icon in the top right corner and select Issues under the Jira settings section.
Step 2: Navigate to Custom Fields
In the Jira administration area, navigate to the custom fields section where you can manage existing fields or create new ones:
1. In the left sidebar, click on Custom fields under the Fields section.
Step 3: Create a New Custom Field
To create a new custom field, follow these steps:
1. Click on the Add custom field button.
2. Choose the type of field you want to create (e.g., Text Field, Select List, Date Picker) and click Next.
3. Enter a name and description for your custom field and click Create.
Step 4: Associate Custom Field with Screens
After creating the custom field, you need to associate it with the appropriate screens where it should appear:
1. Select the screens where you want the custom field to appear and click Update.
Step 5: Configure Field Contexts and Default Values
You can further configure your custom field by setting contexts and default values:
1. Click on the Configure link next to your custom field.
2. Set the context (e.g., applicable issue types and projects) and default value if needed.
Step 6: Verify Custom Field Appearance
To ensure your custom field appears correctly, you should verify it in an issue screen:
1. Open an issue in a project where the custom field is applied.
2. Verify that the custom field appears and functions as expected.
Example: Creating a Due Date Custom Field
Let's go through an example of creating a custom field for tracking due dates:
1. Follow the steps above to access the custom fields section.
2. Click on Add custom field and choose Date Picker.
3. Name the field Due Date and provide a description.
4. Associate the Due Date field with the desired screens.
5. Set any necessary contexts and default values.
6. Verify the Due Date field in an issue screen.
Conclusion
Creating custom fields in Jira is a powerful way to tailor the platform to meet your specific needs. By following this tutorial, you should be able to create and configure custom fields effectively. Experiment with different field types and configurations to find what works best for your projects.