How to set the auto-generated number to a specific starting number?

synergychi

I had received a Smartsheet form from someone who created it and transferred ownership to me. I am looking to set the auto-generated number field to a specific beginning number. Being new to Smartsheet, I am unsure how to do this? I am looking for the field in the form, but cannot find it. If can someone please guide me on how to do it, it would be much appreciated. Thank you!

Andrée Starå

Hi @synergychi

I hope you're well and safe!

Try something like this.

1. Change the column properties from Auto-Number/System... to Text/Number
2. Save
3. Delete the numbers you don't want
4. Save
5. Delete the rows with the numbers you deleted
6. Save
7. Change the column back to Auto Number and change the Starting Number to the number you'd like the next added row to be
8. Save
9. Add a new row
10. Save and watch the magic happen

Did 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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synergychi

Hi Andree,

Thank you for the reply. I apologize I'm so new to Smartsheet. Do I change that in the Excel-looking sheet or in the Form? From the sheet, it looks like it's already in text format. I don't see the PO field in the form?

Andrée Starå

@synergychi

Happy to help!

No worries!

You'll change it in the sheet.

There is probably a hidden Auto numbering column because there is a formula in the Primary Column.

Try and unhide all columns to see if there is another, or try to see what the formula is in the Primary Column, and then you can see which column is used.

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synergychi

I found it! Thank you for the quick help Andree. You are a lifesaver!

Andrée Starå

@synergychi

Excellent!

You're more than welcome!

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synergychi

Hi Andree,

A follow-up to this question....I have an automated workflow where I send a notification whenever a work order is added. Is there a way to have the autogenerated number field be included in that message so the person will know what reference number, or in my case, the purchase order number was created?

Andrée Starå

Hi @synergychi

Yes, you can use the Placeholder feature to include the number.

More info: 

https://help.smartsheet.com/articles/2477796-dynamically-add-cell-data-in-the-subject-and-body-of-request-messages

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synergychi

Thank you Andree!

Andrée Starå

@synergychi

I'm always happy to help!