By default, Item IDs begin with 1 and increment automatically. In many cases, however, it’s more useful to start numbering from a custom seed value.
For example, starting at 10000 guarantees that all IDs have the same width, ensuring consistency and a professional look. Seed values are especially useful when you need to align IDs with existing numbering systems or when you want to standardize ID length across a list or library.
Step 1: Create a new column
- Add a Single line of text column to your list or library.
- Name it something unique (e.g., Auto ID), since the default “ID” column cannot be customized.
Step 2: Open Item IDs in designer
- Click Design in the menu bar.
- Navigate to Business Logic → Item IDs.
- Click + Add New Profile.
Step 3: Configure profile settings
- Select your target column from the Column drop-down.
- Check On New to generate IDs for newly created records.
- Leave Edit Item unchecked, so IDs aren’t regenerated on every edit.
- Enable Prevent Manual Editing to block users from changing IDs manually.
Step 4: Define the pattern with a seed
- In the Pattern, enter a prefix and counter with a seed value. For example:
- PROJ-[#|10000]
-
- PROJ- → static prefix
- # → sequential counter
- 10000 → seed value (starting number)
- This will generate IDs like: PROJ-10000, PROJ-10001, PROJ-10002.
Step 5: Save and test
- Save the profile.
- Add a new item in the list.
- The ID should begin at the seed value you defined.
The Item IDs component allows you to create flexible numbering patterns that start at any point you choose.
By using a seed value, you ensure that your IDs maintain a consistent length, align with existing numbering systems, and remain easy to read.
In our example, we set project codes to start from 10000, demonstrating how a seed value can improve both clarity and consistency across your list.
