---
title: "Understanding Custom Fields in ServiceBox: Dropdown vs. Restricted Dropdown"
description: "Understanding Custom Fields in ServiceBox: Dropdown vs. Restricted Dropdown"
---
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# Understanding Custom Fields in ServiceBox: Dropdown vs. Restricted Dropdown
### **Summary**
This article provides a detailed explanation of how to use and differentiate between the **Dropdown** and **Restricted Dropdown** custom fields within ServiceBox. It addresses common confusion about how choices are added, particularly during work order setup.
### **Custom Fields in ServiceBox**
Custom fields allow businesses to tailor the ServiceBox platform to their specific operational needs. These fields can be applied to entities such as:
- Work Orders
- Customers
- Job Sites
- Quotes
### Dropdown Custom Fields
The **Dropdown** custom field is a dynamic field that evolves with use. When a user types a new value into the field, that value is saved and added to the list of available options in the future.
**Functionality:**
- Any user can add new entries directly through the work order or other applicable sections.
- New entries automatically become available in the dropdown list for all users.
**Best Use Case:**
When flexibility is important and the list of options may need to grow over time — e.g., adding new project types or custom notes.
### Restricted Dropdown Custom Fields
The **Restricted Dropdown** field is a controlled list of predefined options that only administrators can modify.
**Functionality:**
- Users can only choose from administrator-defined options.
- No new entries can be added during work order or form entry.
**Best Use Case:**
Ideal for standardizing responses, ensuring data consistency — e.g., selecting from a fixed list of service categories or job types.
### How to Set Up a Restricted Dropdown
To create a **Restricted Dropdown**:
1. Go to **Settings → Custom Fields**.
2. Select **Restricted Dropdown** as the field type.
3. Enter predefined choices (separated by commas).
4. Click **Save** to apply the field.
### Adding Choices to Each Field Type
| Field Type | Who Can Add Choices | Where to Add Choices |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Dropdown | Any user | Automatically added during field entry |
| Restricted Dropdown | Only administrators | Manually added in the Custom Fields settings |
### **Conclusion**
Understanding when to use **Dropdown** versus **Restricted Dropdown** fields is key for effective customization and data consistency in ServiceBox. Use **Dropdown** fields when flexibility is needed, and choose **Restricted Dropdown** when standardized options are important.
### **Need Help?**
If you have any questions or need support, please click the Help button in your ServiceBox account or email us at **support@getservicebox.com**.
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