Custom field access levels

Previously, the ability to edit a custom field’s settings in Asana was binary: it was either limited to a single individual or open to all project members.

Limiting edit access to a single person was oftentimes too restrictive. On the other hand, when a custom field was added to the field library, extending edit access to all members of the organization, this offered insufficient control.

To address this, Asana has introduced more granular access levels for custom fields, allowing for access settings to be tailored to individual users. These are Field admin, Editor, and User. This update also allows Field admins to invite other organization members to the field to help manage the field as field admins or editors.

Access levels

Some organization members may need comprehensive control over a custom field, including the power to delete the field, or add additional members to help manage it. These individuals should be granted Field admin access.

Others, whose requirements are limited to editing custom field options, would be assigned Editor access.

The majority of organization members, who may not need to alter the custom field itself, would receive User access. This allows an individual to interact with the field, add it to projects and portfolios if it is global, but still safeguard against edits like renaming or deletion.

This enhanced approach aims to balance flexibility and control within Asana, tailoring access to suit varied roles within a project, thereby improving both efficiency and security.

Permissions granted by access levels

See the table below for a detailed description of the custom field access levels and the permissions granted to each role.

*Editors can invite new members to a field at an equal or lower level, meaning they can invite others as Editors or Users, but not Field admins.

Create a custom field and apply permissions

1. Create a custom field in a project by clicking + Add field, or via the Customize menu
2. Add the custom field to the organization's field library, making it a global field
3. Navigate to permissions settings at the top of the window
4. Change members permission settings by choosing between Field admin, Editor, or User.

Edit permissions of an existing field

1. In list view, click the dropdown at the top of the custom field column, then Edit field
2. Navigate to permissions settings at the top of the window
3. Change members permission settings by choosing between Field admin, Editor, or User.