Picklist values by record type
Key Takeaway
Each record type offers its own subset of the master picklist, and profiles decide which record types users get. A new picklist value does not appear in existing record types until you add it to them.
A picklist field on an object has one master picklist, the complete list of values that can be used in any record type. Record types let you show different groups of users a different subset of those values, along with different page layouts and business processes. For example, you can separate regular sales deals from professional services engagements and give each one its own picklist values.
How to set up picklist values for a record type
You need the "Customize Application" permission to create or change record types.
- Add every possible value to the master picklist before you create record types, because each record type takes its values from that list.
- Create the record type. Don't name it Master, because that name is reserved.
- In the "Existing Record Type" list, choose "Master" to copy all available picklist values, or choose an existing record type to clone its picklist values. A record type created without cloning starts with the master picklist values for both standard and custom picklists. You then customize those values for that record type.
- To change the record type's values, select it, click "Edit" next to the picklist field, and add or remove values. Users choose from these values when they create or edit records of that record type.
- You can also set a default value for the record type. Some picklists require a default value. A default value set on a dependent picklist field is ignored.