Creating Approval Rules in NetSuite 2026.1: Basic Information

TL;DR Opening

Starting in NetSuite 2026.1, creating approval rules has been made more intuitive, allowing users to easily enter basic information essential for managing approval processes. This includes defining the rule's name, applicable records, priority, and date ranges.

What's New in Creating Approval Rules

This release introduces a streamlined interface for setting up approval rules through the Approval Process Manager. Users can choose between a simplified New Approval Rule page or the Approval Rule Assistant, making it easier to customize their approval workflows based on specific requirements.

Step-by-Step Guide to Entering Basic Information

To create an approval rule, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to the Approval Rule List:

   • Go to Setup > Approval Process Manager > Approval Rule List.

2. Initiate a New Approval Rule:

   • Click New Approval Rule.
   • Choose between the options:
     • Click Use the New Approval Rule page for a straightforward setup.
     • Click Use the Approval Rule Assistant for guided assistance.

3. Enter Basic Information:

   If using the New Approval Rule page:

   • Complete the Primary Information fields:
     • Name: A unique identifier for the rule.
     • Description (Optional): Additional details about the rule.
     • Record Name: Choose the relevant record type for the approval rule.
     • Start Date: When the rule will take effect.
     • End Date: When the rule will no longer be valid.
     • Subsidiary: Specify the subsidiary associated with the approval rule.
     • Saved Search Condition: Use saved searches to filter records for approval. It is recommended to employ a saved search to streamline the approval process.
     • Priority: Assign a numerical priority to the rule — lower numbers represent higher priority.
   • Exception Criteria: (Applicable to vendor bills only)
     • Check off any exceptions relevant to the rule.
     • Use the Mark All option to select all exceptions.

4. Continue to Approval Routing:

   • If not using the Approval Rule Assistant, proceed to the Approval Routing configuration.

This process offers flexibility in managing approval workflows, ensuring that users can address administrative needs effectively and efficiently.

Who This Affects

• Administrators: Responsible for setting up approval processes.
• Developers: May integrate or customize the workflow as needed.
• Accountants and Financial Users: May be impacted as they work with vendor bills and other related records requiring approvals.

Key Takeaways

• New interface options simplify the creation of approval rules in NetSuite 2026.1.
• Essential fields include name, record type, start/end dates, and priority settings.
• Utilizing saved searches is highly recommended to ensure efficiency in approval routing.
• Exception criteria are specifically applicable to vendor bill approval rules, adding nuance to the approval process.