Changing name field to free text field on SP list

Question

Hi Team

I have a SP list that has a field called "Primary Contact/Project Lead" which connects to our organisations name search and is a mandatory field.

I'm looking at wanting to change this to a free text field and I'm worried if I do this, it'll delete all the existing names that have been entered into the SP List site which I don't want to happen.

Is there a way where I can change field type which doesn't delete the existing names in the SP list?

Regards,
Harry

Answer 1

Hi @Harry N Nomikos

You could duplicate your list, fill it with test data, then see what happens to the test the change to your custom field.

How to duplicate list:

1) Go to Site Contents

2) Go to + New > List

3) Choose From existing list

4) Choose the list from your team (this site) and press Next > Give the list a name and press Create

5) (if you want your exact data from the other list) Go to your list with data > Export to CSV

6) Open up the CSV

7) Choose the data from the list (you may have more columns) and copy it (CTRL+C)

8) Go the the new list > Edit in grid view

7) Press to the left of the first cell (you can hit the plus sign) > Press paste (CTRL+V)

You will now have your other data set to work with. You are now free to test if this will work with your custom field .

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If this is helpful please accept answer.