We're updating our terminology in Jira

'Issue' is changing to 'work item'. You might notice some inconsistencies while this big change takes place.

Change a field configuration

Jira admins can make certain fields required on specific screens using field configurations. They can also manage the descriptions that appear with each field, change the renderer, as well as add or remove fields.

If you're looking for information on how to change the options a field provides, see how to create a custom fieldadd a custom field to a screen, and edit or delete a custom field in company-managed projects.

Edit a field description

You can add a description to an unlocked field to further explain when that field should be used or what information should be entered. Field descriptions are usually displayed beneath their associated fields when creating or editing a work item. 

Certain fields are locked to prevent changes that will affect the core functionality of your Jira applications. 

  1. Select , then Work items.

  2. In the Fields section, select Field configurations.

  3. Select Configure next to the field configuration you wish to edit.

  4. Select Edit next to the field you want to update.

  5. Enter a new description and select Update.

Make a field required or optional

Depending on your team or organization's needs, you may want to make certain fields required to ensure that you're gathering the right information at the right time. Note that all required fields must be added to the Create work item screen for associated projects and work types, and that hidden fields cannot be marked as required.

  1. Select , then Work items.

  2. In the Fields section, select Field configurations.

  3. Select Configure next to the field configuration you wish to edit.

  4. You will see the Required toggle with a check mark next to fields that have already been marked required. Click the toggle so that it shows a cross mark to to remove this requirement. 

  5. To make an optional, visible field required, simply find the field and click the Required toggle so that it shows a check mark. 

Associate a field with screens

You can associate all visible fields (even locked fields) with screens to make sure the fields show up where and when you want them.

  1. Select , then Work items.

  2. In the Fields section, select Field configurations.

  3. Select Configure next to the field configuration you wish to edit.

  4. Find the field and select Screens

  5. Select or unselect the screens associated with the field and select Update.

Change a field renderer

Renderers affect the way you view a field's value and can be configured separately for a select number of fields (e.g. Description, Comment, or any custom text fields). For these fields, you can see which renderer is currently enabled in brackets beneath the field name and click Renderers next to the field to change it. Check out Configuring renderers for more information on how to use and change field renderers.

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