Dynamic Record Names

Generate consistent record names in a database from its fields and built-in record data, or name records from a text field.

Dynamic Record Names generate record names from a formula. The formula can combine fixed text with field values and built-in record data. Each database has its own naming setting.

For example, {Client} - {Project Type} #{Ticket ID} can produce ACME - Onboarding #142.

Naming modes

Open Workspace Settings, select Databases at the top of the side navigation, choose the database in Database, and select Records. Under Record Naming, choose one mode:

  • Manual: People type the record name. In Record name field, choose the text field that holds the name.
  • Auto Generated: Blue generates the name from a formula.

Configure dynamic names

  1. Under Record Naming, select Auto Generated.
  2. Enter fixed text, including the required punctuation and spaces, in Formula.
  3. Type { and select a variable, or select Variable and choose one.
  4. Under When fields are empty, select Use record ID if any field is empty, Show available fields, or Always use formula.
  5. Select Save.
  6. Select Yes, update all names. The database uses names generated from the formula.

If you select Manual again, Blue keeps the formula. It is used again when you select Auto Generated.

Supported fields

You can use these field types in a name formula:

  • Single-line text, multi-line text, email, URL, phone, and country
  • Number, currency, currency conversion, and percent
  • Single-select, multi-select
  • Date
  • Reference, which uses the referenced record’s name
  • Lookup
  • Rollup
  • Unique ID
  • Formula

You can also use Tags, Record ID, Short ID, Due Date, Start Date, Created Date, and Updated Date.

How names update

  • Blue recomputes a name when a field used in its formula changes.
  • You cannot rename a record while Auto Generated is selected.
  • Select Manual before you edit record names directly.
  • Records created through public forms, the API, or automations use the formula.
  • Each database can use a different naming formula.