When creating an attribute, you must choose a data type. The data type determines what kind of value can be stored, how it behaves in processes, and how it appears on screen.
Data Type Reference
Data Type | What It Stores | Process Format | Notes |
Boolean | True / False (or null) | Input: | Displayed as tick or cross on screen |
Date | Calendar date |
| No time component |
DateTime | Date and time |
| Includes hours, minutes, seconds |
Timestamp | Date and time with milliseconds |
| More precise than DateTime |
Integer | Whole number | — | Range: -999,999,999 to 999,999,999 |
Number | Decimal number | — | 15 significant figures (see note below) |
String | Short text, single line | — | Up to 1,000 characters |
Text | Longer text, multi-line | — | Up to 4,000 characters |
HTMLText | Formatted text | — | Basic rich-text formatting supported |
Reference | Link to another object | — | Provides a searchable dropdown |
File | Uploaded file | — | Upload and download supported |
Choosing the Right Type
Use the most restrictive type that meets the requirement:
Use Integer instead of Number when decimal values are not needed
Use Reference instead of String when linking to another object
Use Date instead of String for calendar values
Correct type selection improves data validation and long-term maintainability. The type cannot be changed once data exists in the object.