Insert references

This topic describes how to insert references when configuring workflow actions.

In a field that allows references, you can insert either a single reference or dynamic text containing a combination of references and text. By using references, you can construct content containing context-specific information pertaining to a list item and the instance of the workflow and then use this content within workflow actions.

When Rich Text is available (as in email messages), you can insert a reference as a hyperlink, including strings built from a manually typed starting URL followed by a reference.

To insert a reference

1. In a workflow action configuration field that supports inserting references, click (Insert Reference) to display the Insert Reference dialog box.

2. To insert a single reference into the field, select the item and then click OK.

   The Insert Reference dialog box is closed and the reference is inserted into the field.

3. To insert a combination of references and text (dynamic text) into the field, do the following.
   1. To add a reference to the dynamic text, double-click the reference.
   2. To add manually entered text (such as spaces separating references) to the dynamic text, click under Dynamic text to insert and type.
   3. Click OK. 

   The Insert Reference dialog box is closed and the dynamic text is inserted into the field.

To insert a reference as a hyperlink

1. Click inside a workflow action configuration field that supports Rich Text.

   For example, click inside the email body field for the action Send notification.

2. In the ribbon at the top of the action configuration dialog box, click Insert and then click Link.

   The Insert Reference dialog box appears with text boxes for the URL and the display text.

3. To define the URL, click inside the Address text box, double-click each reference you want to use to insert the reference and manually enter any additional text.

   For example, you might type a starting URL, such as a portal search address or a Google search address, and then insert a reference.

   Note: Remember to use the correct protocol, such as http:// or https://.

4. To define the display text, click inside the Hyperlink text to display text box, double-click each reference that you want to use to insert the reference and manually enter any additional text.

5. Click OK.

   The Insert Reference dialog box is closed and the hyperlink is inserted into the field.

Related information

Insert Reference dialog box