Content Frames and Tabs are fundamental components of the ServiceNow User Interface that help organize and display information efficiently for administrators and end users.
Content Frames represent the main working area in ServiceNow where records, forms, lists, and other content are displayed. Th…Content Frames and Tabs are fundamental components of the ServiceNow User Interface that help organize and display information efficiently for administrators and end users.
Content Frames represent the main working area in ServiceNow where records, forms, lists, and other content are displayed. The primary content frame occupies the central portion of the screen and serves as the workspace where users interact with data. When you click on a module or link in the Application Navigator, the corresponding content loads within this frame. This design allows the navigation elements to remain visible while users work with different types of content.
Tabs enhance productivity by enabling users to open multiple records or pages simultaneously within the same browser window. Rather than navigating back and forth between different records, users can keep several items open in separate tabs and switch between them seamlessly. This feature is particularly valuable when comparing records, referencing information across multiple sources, or working on related tasks.
Key features of Content Frames and Tabs include:
1. Multi-tab browsing - Users can open new tabs using Ctrl+Click or by right-clicking and selecting the option to open in a new tab.
2. Tab management - Tabs can be closed individually, and users can navigate between them by clicking on the desired tab header.
3. Form and List views - Both individual record forms and list views can be opened in separate tabs for efficient multitasking.
4. Persistence - Tab states are maintained during the session, allowing users to return to their work.
5. Configuration options - Administrators can configure default behaviors for how links open, whether in the current frame or new tabs.
Understanding Content Frames and Tabs helps System Administrators optimize user experience and train end users on efficient navigation practices within the ServiceNow platform.
Content Frames and Tabs in ServiceNow: Complete Guide
Why Content Frames and Tabs Are Important
Content Frames and Tabs are fundamental navigation elements in the ServiceNow user interface. Understanding how they function is essential for efficient platform navigation and is a key topic tested on the ServiceNow Certified System Administrator (CSA) exam. Mastering this concept helps administrators work more productively and assists end users effectively.
What Are Content Frames and Tabs?
The ServiceNow interface is divided into distinct areas called frames. The primary frames include:
• Banner Frame: Located at the top of the screen, containing the logo, global search, user menu, and system settings
• Application Navigator: The left-side panel containing menus, modules, and favorites for navigating applications
• Content Frame: The main workspace area where records, lists, forms, and dashboards are displayed
Tabs appear within the Content Frame and allow users to have multiple records, lists, or pages open simultaneously. Each tab represents a separate view or record that users can switch between.
How Content Frames and Tabs Work
Content Frame Functionality: • Displays the primary working area for all ServiceNow activities • Shows forms when viewing or editing records • Presents lists when browsing tables • Renders dashboards, reports, and other application content
Tab Functionality: • New tabs open when clicking on records or modules while holding Shift+Click or via the plus icon • Tabs can be closed individually using the X button • Users can navigate between tabs by clicking on them • The active tab is visually highlighted • Tab behavior can be configured in user preferences
Key User Preferences for Tabs: • Enable or disable tabbed browsing • Set maximum number of tabs allowed • Configure default tab behavior when opening new records
Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Content Frames and Tabs
Common Question Types:
1. Identification Questions: Know the names and locations of each frame. Remember that the Content Frame is the central workspace, not the navigation area.
2. Functionality Questions: Understand what each frame contains and its purpose. The Banner Frame holds global controls while the Content Frame displays working data.
3. Tab Behavior Questions: Know how to open multiple tabs and that users can configure tab preferences through their profile settings.
Study Strategies:
• Memorize Frame Names: Be precise with terminology. The exam uses specific names like Banner Frame, Application Navigator, and Content Frame.
• Understand User Preferences: Know that tabbed browsing settings are configurable per user through System Settings or User Preferences.
• Practice Navigation: Hands-on experience with the ServiceNow interface reinforces conceptual knowledge.
• Focus on Default Behaviors: Know what happens by default when users click links and how Shift+Click affects tab creation.
Watch Out For:
• Questions that confuse the Application Navigator with the Content Frame • Answer choices that incorrectly place elements in the wrong frame • Scenarios asking about customizing frame layouts versus user preferences for tabs
Quick Reference Summary
• Banner Frame: Top area with global search, user menu, logo • Application Navigator: Left panel with menus and modules • Content Frame: Central workspace displaying records and lists • Tabs: Allow multiple items open within the Content Frame • User Preferences: Control tab behavior and limits