Easy Tech TutsHow to Create a Jira Workflow
By Impran M N
Jira's default workflow doesn't always match how your team really moves work forward. Creating a custom workflow lets you define the exact statuses and transitions issues go through, from creation to done. Here's how to set one up.
01Open workflow settings
Go to project or global settings and find the Workflows section where existing workflows are listed.
02Create a new workflow
Start a new workflow from scratch or copy an existing one as a starting point to modify.
03Add your statuses
Define each status the issue should pass through, such as To Do, In Review, Blocked, or Done.
04Define transitions between statuses
Draw the allowed transitions between statuses so issues can only move along the paths you approve.
05Publish and assign the workflow
Publish the workflow and associate it with the relevant project and issue types so it takes effect.
Frequently asked questions
Can I edit a workflow that's already in use?
Yes, but changes need to be published, and Jira will walk you through migrating any issues affected by removed statuses.
Do different issue types need different workflows?
They can; many teams use separate workflows for bugs, stories, and epics to reflect different processes.
Is there a limit to how many statuses I can add?
There's no strict limit, but workflows with too many statuses tend to become harder for teams to follow consistently.
Can I restrict who can move an issue between statuses?
Yes, transitions can have conditions and permissions attached so only certain roles can trigger them.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
