What happens to existing record values if I delete or change an option in the settings of an option field?

Article Number:040181

If you delete an option in the settings of an option field, any existing values in records will remain as they were before the option was deleted.
If you change the name of an option in the settings of an option field, existing values in records will be replaced with the updated name.

The following fields with options are available:

  • Radio Button
  • Drop-down
  • Check box
  • Multi-choice

Example of Deleting an Option from an Option Field

Suppose you select "sample 1" from the "Drop-down" field when you add a record. If you then delete the option "sample 1" from the "Drop-down" field settings, the value in the record will remain as the selected value "sample 1". Example of deleting an option from an option field

However, if you change the existing value in the record to a value other than the deleted option and save it, the deleted option will no longer be displayed the next time you open the "Edit Record" screen. Also, the deleted option will not be displayed when you open the "New Record" screen.

Example of Changing the Name of an Option for an Option Field

Suppose you select "sample 1" from the "Drop-down" field when you add a record. If you then change the option from "sample 1" to "sample A" in the "Drop-down" field settings, the value "sample 1" in the record will be replaced with "sample A". Example of changing the name of an option in an option field