Approval Workflow Emails

Steven Couchman · 06/21/21

We have created several forms and added an Approval Workflow to them, unfortunately on the Approval Workflow email the to the approver, the text is cut off because it is has more characters than the column will allow. We use the Label field to have it show correctly on the form.

Does anyone know how to have the label field show on the Approval Workflow email so all the text shows for the approver?

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Kimberly Loveless · 06/21/21

To my knowledge there isn't a way to use the form labels in the approval workflow.

The field shows on the email using the column heading in the sheet rather than the label heading in the form.

What I have done with a similar situation is to title the column something like "Acknowledge Policies & Procedures" that way the approve gets some context.

Andrée Starå · 06/21/21

Hi @Steven Couchman

I hope you're well and safe!

To add to Kimberly's excellent advice/answer.

What I sometimes do in my client solutions.

I add so-called helper columns that are locked and include the helper text on each row to be included and shown in the request.

Make sense?

Would that work/help?

I hope that helps!

Be safe and have a fantastic week!

Best,

Andrée Starå | Workflow Consultant / CEO @ WORK BOLD

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Steven Couchman · 06/21/21

https://community.smartsheet.com/discussion/comment/295612#Comment_295612

I'm a bit confused on the helper columns - can those be seen as someone is reviewing and approving the form?

I have considered adding a link to a PDF version of the form at the top, but would prefer not to if I do not have to. I do like the idea that Kimberly has suggested.

I am happy to share a link to the form as well, if that would help.

Andrée Starå · 06/21/21

@Steven Couchman

I think you're talking about two different things, a form, and an Approval Request.

The form can show much more information and is more flexible.

For the Approval Request, you could use my method with helper columns.

Something like.

Helper column with description in the cell on each row.
Checkbox Column

Make sense?

Steven Couchman · 06/21/21

We are not on the same page. In the attached image, you can see it cuts off tions: from the Approval Workflow email to the approver because the Column title will only allow so many characters.

The label for the form reads - I will be authorized to work in the following locations:

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