Record Producers are a powerful Self-Service feature in ServiceNow that allows end users to create records in any table through the Service Catalog interface. Unlike traditional catalog items that generate requests, Record Producers provide a user-friendly form that populates data into backend tabl…Record Producers are a powerful Self-Service feature in ServiceNow that allows end users to create records in any table through the Service Catalog interface. Unlike traditional catalog items that generate requests, Record Producers provide a user-friendly form that populates data into backend tables such as Incident, Problem, Change Request, or custom tables.
Key Components:
1. **Table Association**: Each Record Producer is linked to a specific table where the new record will be created. When a user submits the form, a record is inserted into that designated table.
2. **Variables**: These are the form fields presented to users. Variables collect information and can be mapped to fields on the target table. Common variable types include Single Line Text, Reference, Select Box, and Check Box.
3. **Variable Sets**: Reusable groups of variables that can be shared across multiple Record Producers, promoting consistency and reducing administrative overhead.
4. **Script Section**: Record Producers include a Script field where administrators can write server-side JavaScript to manipulate data before record insertion, set default values, or perform validations.
5. **Catalog and Category Assignment**: Record Producers are published to specific catalogs and categories, controlling where users can access them in the Service Portal or Service Catalog.
Benefits:
- **Simplified User Experience**: Users interact with a clean, guided form rather than navigating complex backend tables.
- **Data Quality**: Required fields and validation ensure complete, accurate submissions.
- **Standardization**: Consistent data entry across the organization.
- **Accessibility**: Available through Service Portal, Employee Center, and mobile applications.
Common Use Cases:
- Allowing employees to report incidents through a simplified form
- Creating HR cases or facilities requests
- Submitting change requests with predefined templates
Record Producers bridge the gap between technical table structures and user-friendly self-service, enabling organizations to streamline data collection while maintaining control over record creation processes.
Record Producers in ServiceNow: Complete Guide for CSA Exam
What are Record Producers?
Record Producers are a type of catalog item in ServiceNow that allows users to create records in any table through the Service Catalog interface. Unlike standard catalog items that generate requests, Record Producers create records directly in target tables such as Incident, Problem, Change Request, or custom tables.
Why are Record Producers Important?
Record Producers are essential for several reasons:
• User-Friendly Interface: They provide end users with a guided, form-based experience rather than navigating complex backend forms • Self-Service Enablement: Users can submit incidents, report issues, or create records on their own • Standardization: They ensure consistent data entry by controlling which fields are visible and required • Reduced Training: Simplified interfaces mean less training needed for end users • Workflow Integration: Can trigger workflows and notifications upon submission
How Record Producers Work
1. Table Association: Each Record Producer is linked to a specific target table where records will be created
2. Variable Sets and Variables: Questions are defined using variables that map to fields on the target table
3. Catalog Placement: Record Producers appear in the Service Catalog under specified categories
4. Script Execution: Optional scripts can run before or after record creation to manipulate data
5. Record Creation: When submitted, a new record is inserted into the target table with mapped field values
Key Configuration Elements
• Name: Display name shown in the catalog • Table Name: The target table for record creation • Variables: Form fields that capture user input • Variable Maps: Connect variables to target table fields • Script: Server-side logic for custom processing • Redirect: Where users go after submission
Common Use Cases
• Report an Incident (creates Incident record) • Submit a Security Incident • Request a New Hire onboarding • Create a Problem ticket • Register equipment or assets
Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Record Producers
Key Facts to Remember:
1. Record Producers create records in any table, not just the Request or Requested Item tables
2. They are found under Service Catalog > Catalog Definitions > Record Producers
3. The Table name field determines where the record is created
4. Variables must be mapped to target table fields to populate data
5. Record Producers appear in the Service Catalog alongside regular catalog items
Common Exam Scenarios:
• Questions asking how to let users create incidents through the Service Catalog - Answer: Record Producer • Questions about the difference between Catalog Items and Record Producers - Record Producers create records in specified tables; Catalog Items create Request and Requested Items • Questions about required configurations - Table name and variable mappings are essential
Watch Out For:
• Trick questions that confuse Record Producers with Order Guides or Content Items • Questions about where records are created - always check the Table name field • Remember that Record Producers do NOT create Requested Items by default
Quick Reference Summary
| Aspect | Detail | |--------|--------| | Purpose | Create records via Service Catalog | | Location | Service Catalog > Catalog Definitions | | Output | Record in target table | | Key Field | Table name |