ServiceNow Scripting Interview Questions

ServiceNow is a platform-as-a-service tool that companies leverage to efficiently manage their IT operations and services. According to Forbes, ServiceNow's revenue has increased to 29% in the fourth quarter of 2023. This figure shows that many companies embrace the ServiceNow platform to automate their IT services.

That's why it is a great choice if you plan to make a career in the ServiceNow platform. It will have a promising future, undeniably. To help you get set up, MindMajix offers this blog, covering the crucial Servicenow scripting interview questions. It will help you increase your ServiceNow scripting expertise.

Let’s read on!

Table of Contents

• ServiceNow Developer
• Skills
• Job Responsibilities
• Feature-Based Interview Questions
• Beginners
• Intermediate
• Advanced
• Key Takeaways
• FAQs

ServiceNow Developer - Skills Required and Job Responsibilities:

In this section, you will go through the primary and secondary skills necessary for ServiceNow developers. Additionally, you will get to know the job responsibilities of ServiceNow developers for various expertise levels.

Let’s jump in!

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 Skills Required

• Primary Skills

Below are the essential skills that every ServiceNow developer must develop:

• Strong expertise in JavaScript programming and Jelly scripting
• Comprehensive knowledge of ITSM concepts
• Sound knowledge of CSS, HTML, and XML programming
• Proficiency in creating workflows and integrating APIs
• Exposure to web development tools such as AJAX and .NET
• Thorough understanding of cloud computing concepts and platforms
• Excellent project management and collaboration skills

• Secondary skills

Jotted down are the secondary skills required for ServiceNow developers.

• Up-to-date with the emerging trends in the ITSM domain
• Exposure to software development lifecycles such as Waterfall and Agile methodologies
• Familiar with SQL servers and data management
• Knowledge of various operating systems
• Familiar with data security methods and best practices
• Knowledge of configuration management and change management
• Good problem-solving and communication skills

Job Responsibilities

• Job responsibilities of ServiceNow developers with 1-2 years of experience
• Writing clean and efficient JavaScript codes
• Tailoring the ServiceNow platform to meet the business requirements
• Ability to perform component integration tests
• Configuring fields, tables, and relationships in databases
• Performing secured data management
• Debugging technical issues related to ServiceNow implementation
• Making perfect documentation

Job responsibilities of ServiceNow developers with 3-5 years of experience

• Collaborating with various internal teams as well as users to understand their needs perfectly
• Defining processes and functional designs based on business needs
• Writing and deploying JavaScript codes
• Integrating Glide APIs to increase the functionalities of the ServiceNow platform
• Creating and running test cases to remove bugs and improve the quality of codes.

Job responsibilities of ServiceNow developers with more than five years of experience

• Reviewing codes and performing quality control checks to foster high-performing ServiceNow platforms
• Creating and configuring business rules, client scripts, UI policies and actions, etc.
• Tailoring ServiceNow modules such as incident, change, problem, etc., based on business needs
• Developing and implementing workflows and custom service portal widgets.
• Designing and developing data interfaces to connect with external systems
• Collaborating with stakeholders to understand the requirements and ensure the accurate delivery of the requirements.

ServiceNow version and features-based interview questions:

In this section, you will read through the questions and answers related to the ServiceNow version and its new features.

Let’s take a look!

1. What is the latest version of ServiceNow software?

Now platform Vancouver release is the latest release of the ServiceNow. It was released on September 20, 2023. Know that Vancouver release is a comprehensive automation solution. It enhances platform security, simplifies processes, and accelerates digital transformation.

2. What are the new features of the Vancouver ServiceNow product?

The latest release of ServiceNow provides a plethora of advanced features and capabilities.

Let’s take a glance at some of the key features in the table below.

Features	Details
AI Search	displays search result counts on the results page simplifies complex search filtering with multi-select facets
APIs	allows using server-side JavaScript APIs in scripts. supports changing application functionalities runs client APIs when client-based events are triggered.
Automated Test Framework	reduces manual testing and improves productivity through automation supports creating and scheduling test cases to run tests in batches
Cloud cost management	enhances user experience through user-friendly cloud cost management workspace minimizes unused resources in the cloud database by resizing or removing the resources.

         

ServiceNow Scripting Interview Questions for Beginners:

In this section, you will go through the ServiceNow questions and answers, which will help you to establish a solid foundation on ServiceNow concepts.

Let’s learn now!

1. What is jelly scripting?

Jelly scripting in ServiceNow is a method that helps to build User Interface pages. It converts XML codes into executable codes. Here, the output will be a JavaScript or HTML code. Browsers use the output code to create UI elements on an interface page. Besides, we can use jelly scripting in two application modules: UI pages and UI Macros.

2. What is Gliderecord Class in ServiceNow?

We can use the Gliderecord class to query a database table. We can also use this class to add, modify, and delete records in a table. Gliderecord classes provide JavaScript APIs that help to work with database tables. The important thing about the Gliderecord class is that it allows querying databases without using SQL queries. Moreover, we can display UI pages and define UI actions using the Gliderecord class.

3. What is Server-side Scripting?

Server-side scripting helps to perform various actions on the ServiceNow server. With this scripting, we can update the record fields of a database table. We can also manage failed log-in attempts and send emails using server-side scripting. Server-side scripting supports creating as well as responding to events quickly. Besides, it helps to send REST messages and receive results.

4. What is the difference between the Fix Script and Background Script?

A fix script is essentially a server-side JavaScript code. We run this code only after installing or upgrading an application. On the other hand, we use background scripts to run arbitrary JavaScript codes from the ServiceNow server.

[ Related Article ServiceNow Tutorial ]

5. How many types of scripting are there in ServiceNow?

There are two types of scripts: server-side scripts and client-side scripts.

A client-side script is typically a list or form. This script usually runs in front of users. Besides, it doesn’t include any form submission. On the other hand, a server-side script runs behind the scenes once a form is submitted. This script uses the data stored in the ServiceNow database since it runs on the server.

6. What are the multiple types of client scripts used in ServiceNow?

The following are ServiceNow’s different types of client scripts. They are:

• onLoad
• onSubmit
• onChange

7. What are the different ServiceNow APIs?

Jotted down are the different ServiceNow APIs.

1. Client-Side API
2. Now Experience UI Framework
3. Classic Mobile Application API
4. Server Global API
5. Server Scoped API
6. REST API

8. What is the use of ServiceNow APIs?

ServiceNow APIs offer many methods and classes to ServiceNow developers. With the ServiceNow APIs, we can:

• query, update, create, and delete database tables
• enable messages or alerts
• write log files
• connect with third-party web services
• trigger events and workflows

9. What is the use of a record producer in the ServiceNow platform?

We can create task-based records in applications using the record producers of ServiceNow. For example, we can create incident records in App Engine Studio (AES) without creating requests. Record producers standardize requests through simplified forms, enhancing user experience exceptionally.

10. What do you mean by Transform Maps and import sets in ServiceNow?

A transform map in ServiceNow is a set of field maps. The maps establish a relationship between the existing ServiceNow table and import set fields. The table can be a user or incident. We can use the same transform map to map another import set of fields with the same table.

Good! You have become familiar with ServiceNow scripting basic concepts.  Next, we will move on to the interview questions that will elevate your expertise a step higher than before.

ServiceNow scripting interview questions and answers for intermediate-level learners:

This section covers suitable questions and answers for learners with decent exposure to ServiceNow scripting concepts. Once you complete reading this section, you will gain solid expertise in ServiceNow scripting concepts.

Let’s see them below!

11. What is the use of the Gliderecordget () record method?

We can use the Gliderecordget () method to retrieve a single record with a single code line. Importantly, the record must have a specified sys_id. A Next operation is performed before returning the record.

12. How will you use client scripts to make variables visible on specific catalog tasks?

We can make variables visible on specific catalog tasks in two ways, as mentioned below:

1. We need to show only the visible variables while creating a catalog task from a workflow. We need to select variables from the available for the selected option.
2. If the visible variables are present in more than one task but we want to show them in only one task, then we can use the below code.

13. How do you write Gliderecord queries in ServiceNow?

We can write Gliderecord queries in four simple steps. Here they are:

1. Verifying the dictionary entry to ensure field names
2. Building a filter in a list
3. Copying the query from the breadcrumb
4. Pasting the query in your code using the addEncodedQuery API.

[ Click Here to get Frequently Asked  ServiceNow Interview Questions ]

14. How do you create the NeedIt request type options client scripts in ServiceNow?

We must follow the steps below to create the NeedIt request type options client script.

• verify the fields such as request type
• verify the fields on the NeedIt form
• create the client script using the Studio or editor
• configure the client script
• Finally, replace the contents of the script field with the written script.

15. What are the best practices that need to be followed in ServiceNow scripting?

Here are the best practices that we need to follow in ServiceNow scripting.

• The codes must be easy to read. Empty lines and a lot of white spaces make codes easy to read.
• Avoid creating complex Gliderecord queries
• Break the codes into different components
• Use descriptive functions and variables. For example, avoid using the Eval function
• Use both declared and invoked self-executing functions within the same script field

16. What is the difference between a client script and a UI policy?

Below are the differences between a client script and a UI policy.

• Client script is run before running a UI policy.
• Client script accesses fields that are present on the form, whereas UI policy doesn’t access fields that are not on the form.
• The client script doesn’t have conditions. But UI policy has conditions.

17. What are the differences between a client script and a user event script?

The following are the key differences between client and user event scripts.

• Client scripts run on browsers, whereas user event scripts run on servers
• Client scripts have over ten trigger points, whereas user event scripts have only three trigger points.
• The execution speed of client scripts depends on the effectiveness of the computer resources, whereas user event scripts run faster than client scripts.

18. What is the use of the workflow editor in ServiceNow?

The workflow editor is an interface with which we can create and modify workflows. We can create workflows and tailor them based on requirements. We can also use existing activities as data sources. We can perform all these activities on the same screen at a time. Note that users with workflow_creator roles can create workflows. Similarly, users with workflow_admin roles can delete, modify, and publish workflows.

19. What is ITIL in ServiceNow, and why is it important?

ITIL stands for IT Infrastructure Library. ITIL plays a pivotal role in increasing the effectiveness of organizations and aligning IT resources and operations with business goals.

The following are the benefits of ITIL.

• Improve IT resource utilization and reduce costs
• Support managing risks and provide stability
• Enhance IT services provisioning, increasing customer satisfaction
• Increase visibility and foster collaboration
• Excellent adaptability and customization

20. Why do you need to establish my service in the CMDB?

CMDB is the ServiceNow database that we can use to store all technical service information. For example, we can store information such as description and service name, service support information, change management approvers, etc.

We need to establish technical services in CMDB, which simplifies the task of support staff in managing incidents and making change requests.

Cheers! You have completed learning crucial Servicenow scripting interview questions with answers in this section.

ServiceNow scripting interview questions for advanced learners:

The questions and answers in this section will take your expertise in ServiceNow scripting to the next level.

Let’s check out them!

21. How to fetch a list of records where field values shouldn’t be empty?

We can use the addNotNullQuery() method to fetch a list of records in which field values are not empty.

22. How do you fetch data from a user table field that refers to another table?

We need to write a business rule in the user table and then pull the data required from another table. The below code will help the same.                       

23. How do you prevent form submission on the client and server side?

We can use the return false statement to prevent form submission on the client and serverside servers. This statement helps to exit the function and stop the form submission. 

24. How do you check syntax errors in scripts in ServiceNow?

ServiceNow provides controls for checking errors in scripts. The script editor places the cursor in place of the syntax error. It allows for identifying syntax errors using line numbers.

The script editor notifies errors in two scenarios. They are:

1. While saving a new record and updating an existing record.
2. When we click the syntax checking icon before saving or updating a record

25. Can you call a script include using a business rule?

 Yes, we can call a ‘script include’ by a business rule. But the main thing is that it must be created first before calling. We can follow the below procedure to create the script include.

1. Navigate to system definition and go to script includes
2. Click the new button to create a new script include.

26. How will you migrate CSDM-related data to the ServiceNow database tables?

We need to follow the below steps to migrate data.

• First, we must export all data to spreadsheets
• Perform attribute mapping for frictionless data migration, and identify the tables for migration
• Then, mitigate dependencies by running the table dependency scripts. We can use the result of the execution to identify referenced dependencies.
• Implement attribute mapping to maintain the customer attributes on the database tables
• Migration is performed by moving existing CIs, preventing table dependencies, and re-loading data.

27. How will you ensure whether the caller is VIP or not? If the caller is VIP, how will you create an alert without using GlideAjax?

The script below will help create the alert.                                                     

• First, the script will get the caller’s email address. Then, it ensures whether it is a VIP address or not by checking with the VIP list.
• If the caller is VIP, the script will create an alert as “Caller<caller email address>is VIP.”
• If the caller is not on the VIP list, the script will take no action.

28. Consider that you have created a business rule in ServiceNow. The important thing is that the rule must run before an incident update. But the script needs to trigger a function from ‘script includes’ that is very slow. You need to make this call asynchronous. So it will allow the form to load. How will you resolve this issue?

We must use the Gliderunscriptjob to run a script on a background thread. Then, pass the script as a string to the ScheduleScript method on Gliderunscriptjob, as shown below.   

29. Consider that you want to print the elements of an array using the foreach loop. It causes an error as "The prefix j for element j: for each is not bound". How will you remove the error from the code? Below is the code.

Jelly is case-sensitive. This error will be removed if we change j: for each to j: each. We can change the code as below.                                             

30. Consider that you are creating a front-end portal in ServiceNow. You use the g: evaluate to call variables from multiple tables. Below is a sample code that uses the g: evaluate. Can you store this type of code in ServiceNow and call them when needed?

Yes, we can use UI macros to store the codes and call them as and when required.

• First, create a UI macro, set_user_name_var, as shown below.
• Invoke the UI macro where we can write jelly code.
• Alternatively, we can use the code below.
• Now, the jvar_user_name jelly variable will exist, and we can also access the variable. Below is a sample code.

Congrats! You have gone through the ServiceNow scripting interview questions from basics to advanced. No doubt it will help to advance your career significantly.

Key Takeaways

• ServiceNow is a PaaS solution that helps companies make efficient workflows.
• The Gliderecord class is one of the useful classes of ServiceNow
• We can use return false statements to prevent form submission on the client and serverside servers.
• ServiceNow provides two types of scripts: fix script and background script. Fix script is a service-side JavaScript script, whereas background script is an arbitrary JavaScript code.
• ServiceNow supports developers in identifying errors in codes by placing the cursor on the errors exactly.

ServiceNow Scripting IQA FAQs

1. What is ServiceNow?

ServiceNow is a cloud-based platform that enables wide-scale digital transformation in companies. This platform automates tasks and drives efficiency. It is the tool that offers the best experience to both customers and employees. This low-code intelligent platform provides operational agility and boosts productivity dramatically.

2. Is ServiceNow a good career?

Yes, Servicenow is a good career, undeniably. According to Glassdoor, the salary for a ServiceNow developer in India is around 7 LPA on average. In the USA, the average salary for a ServiceNow developer is 111k USD per year. Top companies such as TCS, Capgemini, Infosys, IBM, Accenture, etc., hire ServiceNow developers on a large scale. So the demand is always high and no doubt you can make a bright future.

3. Is ServiceNow hard to learn?

No, you can learn Servicenow quickly. If you focus and devote your time and energy to learning, then learning ServiceNow is not a great deal. MindMajix offers ServiceNow scripting training to learners at all levels. The practical-based training will help you learn ServiceNow concepts in depth and build a prosperous career.

4. What is ServiceNow certification?

If you clear the ServiceNow Certified Application Developer (CAD) exam conducted by ServiceNow, you can undoubtedly gain a competitive edge in the ServiceNow job market. This certification showcases your expertise in developing apps, business logic, user interfaces, etc. MindMajix’s ServiceNow training will prepare you to crack the certification effortlessly.

5. What programming language is used in ServiceNow scripting?

JavaScript is used to create various types of scripts in ServiceNow. ServiceNow uses ServiceNow APIs to interact with database tables, third-party web services, launch workflows, and many more.

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Conclusion

It’s time to wrap! Hope that this blog might have enhanced your expertise in ServiceNow scripting to new heights. Once you thoroughly understand the ServiceNow scripting interview questions and answers, you will gain high-level confidence to nail your ServiceNow interviews smoothly.

If you want to explore more about ServiceNow scripting, MindMajix offers ServiceNow scripting training for all learners. You can take the course through virtual online classes or on-demand video mode. Completing this training will elevate your knowledge of ServiceNow scripting to the next level and help you climb up your career ladder.