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Make a template item

Speed up repetitive item creation​

If you regularly create items with common attribute values, use a template item to save time.

Items in the Template collection are reusable "drafts" that new items can be based on. A typical template item only includes properties and attribute values likely to be the same on items created from it. This can even include links to other template items!

Templates are useful for items with repetitive data, such as:

  • equipment types, e.g. a litter bin model with a fixed manufacturer and capacity

  • recurring activities, e.g. a routine inspection with a fixed checklist

  • regular contacts, e.g. a contractor whose company details stay the same each time

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To use templates with items of a particular design, it must be configured to allow the Template collection.

Convert an existing item​

To convert an existing item to a template:

  1. Open the item to view its details.

  2. In the General section, select Edit to modify any attribute values that shouldn't be included in the template. Check other sections to add or remove any related items as needed.

  3. Open the Item Menu in the item header and choose Make template .

This moves the item to the Template collection. Any parent links are removed, since they usually reflect the original item's specific relationships, rather than something every new item should inherit. To add parents to a template, create it from scratch instead.

Clone this template to create new items with the same configuration.

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To reverse this, edit the item's Settings section and change the Collection back to Live (or another allowed collection).

Manage templates​

To learn more about templates, including how to create one from scratch and manage existing ones, see Template items.