Skills required for ServiceNow Developer and how to assess them

8 fundamental ServiceNow Developer skills and traits

The best skills for ServiceNow Developers include JavaScript Proficiency, ServiceNow Scripting, Glide API Knowledge, UI Design, Integration Skills, Workflow Automation, Security Best Practices and ITSM Knowledge.

Let’s dive into the details by examining the 8 essential skills of a ServiceNow Developer.

JavaScript Proficiency

JavaScript is the backbone of ServiceNow development. A ServiceNow Developer uses JavaScript to create custom applications, automate workflows, and enhance the platform's functionality. Mastery of JavaScript allows developers to write efficient scripts and troubleshoot issues effectively.

For more insights, check out our guide to writing a JavaScript Developer Job Description.

ServiceNow Scripting

ServiceNow scripting involves using the platform's APIs and scripting languages to customize and extend its capabilities. A ServiceNow Developer must be adept at writing client scripts, business rules, and script includes to tailor the platform to meet specific business needs.

Glide API Knowledge

The Glide API is a set of JavaScript APIs provided by ServiceNow for server-side scripting. A ServiceNow Developer leverages these APIs to interact with the database, perform CRUD operations, and implement complex business logic within the platform.

UI Design

User Interface Design is crucial for creating intuitive and user-friendly applications on ServiceNow. A ServiceNow Developer should be skilled in designing forms, dashboards, and portals that enhance user experience and meet organizational requirements.

Check out our guide for a comprehensive list of interview questions.

Integration Skills

ServiceNow often needs to integrate with other systems and applications. A ServiceNow Developer must be proficient in using REST and SOAP APIs to facilitate seamless data exchange and ensure interoperability between ServiceNow and external systems.

Workflow Automation

Automating workflows is a key responsibility of a ServiceNow Developer. This involves designing and implementing workflows that streamline business processes, reduce manual effort, and improve efficiency across the organization.

Security Best Practices

Understanding security best practices is essential for a ServiceNow Developer to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance. This includes implementing access controls, data encryption, and secure coding practices within the platform.

For more insights, check out our guide to writing a Cyber Security Analyst Job Description.

ITSM Knowledge

A solid understanding of IT Service Management (ITSM) processes is important for a ServiceNow Developer. This knowledge helps in configuring and customizing ITSM modules like Incident, Problem, and Change Management to align with business objectives.

8 secondary ServiceNow Developer skills and traits

The best skills for ServiceNow Developers include HTML/CSS, Agile Methodologies, Database Management, Problem-Solving, Version Control, Communication Skills, Analytical Thinking and Project Management.

Let’s dive into the details by examining the 8 secondary skills of a ServiceNow Developer.

HTML/CSS

While not the primary focus, knowledge of HTML and CSS is beneficial for a ServiceNow Developer when customizing the look and feel of the platform's user interface.

Agile Methodologies

Familiarity with Agile methodologies can help a ServiceNow Developer work effectively in teams, manage projects, and deliver iterative improvements to the platform.

Database Management

Understanding database concepts and management is useful for a ServiceNow Developer when dealing with data storage, retrieval, and optimization within the platform.

Problem-Solving

Strong problem-solving skills enable a ServiceNow Developer to diagnose issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions quickly.

Version Control

Experience with version control systems like Git is helpful for a ServiceNow Developer to manage code changes, collaborate with team members, and maintain code integrity.

Communication Skills

Effective communication is important for a ServiceNow Developer to understand requirements, explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, and collaborate with team members.

Analytical Thinking

Analytical thinking helps a ServiceNow Developer assess complex situations, evaluate options, and make informed decisions that enhance the platform's functionality.

Project Management

Basic project management skills can assist a ServiceNow Developer in planning, executing, and monitoring development tasks to ensure timely delivery of solutions.

How to assess ServiceNow Developer skills and traits

Assessing the skills and traits of a ServiceNow Developer can be a challenging task, given the diverse range of expertise required in this role. From JavaScript proficiency to ITSM knowledge, a ServiceNow Developer must possess a blend of technical and domain-specific skills. It's not just about knowing the tools; it's about how effectively they can be applied to solve real-world problems.

Traditional resumes might highlight a candidate's experience and certifications, but they often fall short in demonstrating actual proficiency and problem-solving abilities. This is where skills-based assessments come into play, providing a more accurate picture of a candidate's capabilities. By leveraging tools like Adaface on-the-job skill tests, you can significantly reduce screening time by 85% and ensure a 2x improvement in the quality of hires.

When evaluating a ServiceNow Developer, it's important to consider their ability to script within the platform, design intuitive user interfaces, and integrate with other systems. Additionally, understanding security best practices and workflow automation are key traits that can set a candidate apart. By focusing on these areas, you can better assess whether a candidate is the right fit for your team.

Let’s look at how to assess ServiceNow Developer skills with these 5 talent assessments.

JavaScript Online Test

Our JavaScript Online Test gauges a candidate's proficiency in JavaScript, including ES5 and ES6 features, DOM manipulation, and asynchronous programming.

The test assesses their understanding of JavaScript basics such as arrays, objects, and functions, along with more advanced topics like closures, promises, and API handling.

Successful candidates demonstrate a strong ability to solve coding problems using JavaScript, effectively handle asynchronous tasks, and interact with APIs.

UI/UX Design Test

Our UI/UX Design Test evaluates a candidate's ability to design intuitive and effective user interfaces and experiences.

This test covers a range of topics from design thinking and UX principles to wire-framing and visual design.

Candidates who score well are proficient in creating engaging designs that are both aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly.

REST API Test

The REST API Test measures a candidate's knowledge and skills in designing and interacting with RESTful services.

It evaluates understanding of REST principles, HTTP methods, and best practices in API design.

High-scoring candidates will have demonstrated strong abilities in creating and managing secure, scalable APIs.

Cyber Security Assessment Test

Our Cyber Security Assessment Test assesses a candidate's ability to understand and implement cybersecurity measures.

The test evaluates knowledge in network security, cryptography, and various cybersecurity defenses and attacks.

Candidates excelling in this test can effectively identify vulnerabilities, mitigate risks, and ensure data security.

ITIL Test

The ITIL Test evaluates a candidate's understanding of ITIL practices and principles in IT service management.

This test covers ITIL service lifecycle stages, including service strategy, design, transition, and operation.

Well-performing candidates demonstrate a thorough knowledge of ITIL standards and their application in real-world IT scenarios.

Summary: The 8 key ServiceNow Developer skills and how to test for them

ServiceNow Developer skills FAQs

What are the key JavaScript skills needed for a ServiceNow developer?

ServiceNow developers should be proficient in JavaScript, particularly in understanding event handling, DOM manipulation, and AJAX interactions. Knowledge of JavaScript frameworks like AngularJS, used in ServiceNow, is also beneficial.

How important is UI design for a ServiceNow developer?

UI design is important for ServiceNow developers to ensure applications are user-friendly and accessible. They should be skilled in using ServiceNow's UI tools and understand basic principles of design to enhance user experience.

What does integration skills entail for ServiceNow developers?

Integration skills for ServiceNow developers involve connecting ServiceNow with other business systems using REST, SOAP, or other APIs. Understanding of data exchange formats like JSON or XML is necessary.

Can you explain the significance of ITSM knowledge in the ServiceNow context?

ITSM knowledge is critical for ServiceNow developers as it helps them align their solutions with IT service management practices. Familiarity with ITIL frameworks and how ServiceNow supports these processes is beneficial.

What are some effective ways to assess problem-solving skills in ServiceNow developers?

To assess problem-solving skills, present candidates with real-world scenarios that require debugging a script or designing a workflow in ServiceNow. Observing their approach and solution provides insight into their practical skills.

Why is knowledge of Agile methodologies important for ServiceNow developers?

Agile methodologies are important as they guide ServiceNow developers in managing projects that require flexibility and iterative testing. This approach helps in adapting to changes and delivering solutions incrementally.

How do ServiceNow developers use database management skills in their role?

Database management skills are used by ServiceNow developers to design, implement, and maintain the underlying database structures. They need to ensure data integrity and optimize performance for scalability.

What role do communication skills play in the success of a ServiceNow developer?

Communication skills are key for ServiceNow developers to effectively collaborate with team members, stakeholders, and end-users. Clear communication ensures that requirements are understood and solutions are effectively implemented.