Show variables on workflow start forms

This topic describes how to show variables on workflow start forms to collect information before starting workflows.

Workflow start forms are displayed for workflows that are configured to start manually using the workflow settings. For more information, see Workflow Settings dialog box.

Any variables configured to show on workflow start forms are called start variables and serve as start data (data that must be collected when the workflow is started).

Note: Start variables (start data) appear only when the workflow is set to start manually. If the workflow starts automatically, then the start variables do not appear and default values (if configured) are used.

Start variables are displayed in the following areas: 

• Start Workflow page, above the Start workflow button
• New Workflow Schedule SharePoint page, in the Start Data section
• Start Workflow action, in the Start Data section

To show a variable on the start form for the current workflow

1. In the Variables dialog box, do one of the following.

   For instructions on accessing the Variables dialog box, see

   • To edit an existing variable, select the variable and then click Modify to display the Modify Workflow Variable dialog box.
   • To create a variable, click New to display the Create Workflow Variable dialog box.
2. Select the check box for Show on start form and then click Save.

Related information

About workflow variables

Reorder start variables