Swimlanes Includes A Blank Lane Which Sets Field To Default
Introduction
Swimlanes are a powerful feature in many project management tools, allowing users to visualize and organize work items across different stages or states. However, when custom configurations are added, a blank lane may appear at the bottom, which can sometimes be confusing. In this article, we will delve into the world of swimlanes, exploring the concept of a blank lane, its implications, and potential solutions to avoid confusion.
What is a Blank Lane in Swimlanes?
A blank lane in swimlanes is a default lane that is created and added at the bottom of the swimlane configuration. This lane is essentially a placeholder that allows users to move work items to a pre-set default value. The default value is specified in the swimlane configuration, as shown in the code snippet below.
"swimlanes":{
"field":"Custom.WorkStatus",
"defaultValue": "Active",
"values":[
{
"value":"Active",
"title":"Active"
},
{
"value":"Needs Clarification",
"title":"Needs Clarification"
},
{
"value":"Dependent On Other Work",
"title":"Dependent On Other Work"
},
{
"value":"Branch Not Available",
"title":"Branch Not Available"
},
{
"value":"Other",
"title":"Other"
}
]
}
Implications of a Blank Lane
When a work item is moved to the blank lane, it is pushed to the pre-set default value swimlane if allowed and the item is not already in the Swimlane value equal to defaultValue. This can be both beneficial and confusing, depending on the context of the project.
On one hand, the blank lane provides a convenient way to move work items to a default state, which can be useful in certain scenarios. For example, if a work item is in a state that is no longer relevant, moving it to the blank lane can help to declutter the board and focus on more important tasks.
On the other hand, the blank lane can be confusing, especially if multiple values are present. In such cases, it may be difficult to determine which value is the default, leading to potential errors or misunderstandings.
Should the Blank Lane Exist?
The existence of a blank lane is a matter of debate. While it can be useful in certain scenarios, it can also lead to confusion and errors. Ultimately, the decision to include a blank lane depends on the specific needs and requirements of the project.
If the blank lane is deemed necessary, it is essential to provide context about the default value that is set when dragging an item to this lane. This can be achieved by adding a title to the blank lane, such as "Default:
"swimlanes":{
"field":"Custom.WorkStatus",
"defaultValue": "Active",
"values":[
{
"value":"Active",
"title":"Active"
},
{
"value":"Needs Clarification",
"title":"Needs Clarification"
},
{
"value":"Dependent On Other Work",
"title":"Dependent On Other Work"
},
{
"value":"Branch Not Available",
"title":"Branch Not Available"
},
{
"value":"Other",
"title":"Other"
},
{
"value":"",
"title":"Default: Active"
}
]
}
Backlog Priority and Swimlanes
If a State is marked with "isBacklog": true, the swimlanes are not available for that column. This is because the state is instead mapped to backlog priority. This can be a useful feature, as it allows users to prioritize work items based on their backlog status.
However, it can also lead to confusion, especially if users are not aware of the backlog priority mapping. In such cases, it is essential to provide clear documentation and guidance on how to use the backlog priority feature.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the blank lane in swimlanes is a feature that can be both beneficial and confusing, depending on the context of the project. While it can provide a convenient way to move work items to a default state, it can also lead to errors and misunderstandings.
By providing context about the default value that is set when dragging an item to the blank lane, users can avoid confusion and make the most of this feature. Additionally, by understanding the implications of a blank lane and backlog priority, users can make informed decisions about how to use these features in their project.
Best Practices for Using Swimlanes with a Blank Lane
- Provide context about the default value: Add a title to the blank lane, such as "Default:
", to provide context about the default value that is set when dragging an item to this lane. - Use clear and concise language: Use clear and concise language when labeling the blank lane and other swimlanes to avoid confusion.
- Document the backlog priority feature: Provide clear documentation and guidance on how to use the backlog priority feature to avoid confusion.
- Test and validate the feature: Test and validate the feature to ensure that it is working as expected and that users are not experiencing any errors or misunderstandings.
Q: What is a blank lane in swimlanes?
A: A blank lane in swimlanes is a default lane that is created and added at the bottom of the swimlane configuration. This lane is essentially a placeholder that allows users to move work items to a pre-set default value.
Q: Why is a blank lane created in swimlanes?
A: A blank lane is created in swimlanes to provide a convenient way to move work items to a default state. This can be useful in certain scenarios, such as when a work item is in a state that is no longer relevant.
Q: What happens when a work item is moved to the blank lane?
A: When a work item is moved to the blank lane, it is pushed to the pre-set default value swimlane if allowed and the item is not already in the Swimlane value equal to defaultValue.
Q: Can I customize the blank lane?
A: Yes, you can customize the blank lane by adding a title to it, such as "Default:
Q: What is the difference between a blank lane and a custom lane?
A: A blank lane is a default lane that is created and added at the bottom of the swimlane configuration, while a custom lane is a lane that is created by the user to meet specific needs.
Q: Can I remove the blank lane?
A: Yes, you can remove the blank lane if it is not needed. However, be aware that removing the blank lane may affect the functionality of the swimlane configuration.
Q: What happens if a State is marked with "isBacklog": true?
A: If a State is marked with "isBacklog": true, the swimlanes are not available for that column. This is because the state is instead mapped to backlog priority.
Q: Can I use the backlog priority feature with swimlanes?
A: Yes, you can use the backlog priority feature with swimlanes. However, be aware that the backlog priority feature may affect the functionality of the swimlane configuration.
Q: How do I document the backlog priority feature?
A: You can document the backlog priority feature by providing clear documentation and guidance on how to use it. This can include information on how to create and manage backlog priorities, as well as how to use the backlog priority feature with swimlanes.
Q: What are some best practices for using swimlanes with a blank lane?
A: Some best practices for using swimlanes with a blank lane include:
- Providing context about the default value that is set when dragging an item to the blank lane
- Using clear and concise language when labeling the blank lane and other swimlanes
- Documenting the backlog priority feature
- Testing and validating the feature to ensure that it is working as expected
Q: Where can I find more information about swimlanes with a blank lane?
A: You can find more information about swimlanes with a blank lane in the documentation and guides provided by the project management tool you are using. You can also search online for tutorials and articles about swimlanes with a blank lane.