LEN

Use the LEN function to find the number of characters in a Text value.

Use

LEN( text )
Returns the number of characters in a text value.

Parameter	Required	Description
text	Yes	the text to return length of

Returns

Number

Examples

Output Validation (Enforcing Character Limits)

You can use the LEN function in an Output Validation Formula to ensure that a user provides a sufficient amount of information or stays within a required character count.

• Scenario: A "Project Description" field on a trigger form must be at least 20 characters long to ensure enough detail is provided.
• Formula: ASSERT(LEN(this) >= 20, "Please provide a more detailed description (minimum 20 characters).")
• Logic:
  • this: Refers to the text currently being entered into the description field.
  • LEN(this): Calculates the total character count of that text.
  • ASSERT: If the length is less than 20, the function returns FALSE and displays the custom error message to the user.

Conditional Routing (Based on ID Length)

The LEN function can be used within a Path Condition Formula on a Branch step to route an approval based on the format of an identifier.

• Scenario: Your organization uses two types of "Department Codes." Local codes are 4 characters long (e.g., "FIN1"), while international codes are 6 characters long (e.g., "INTFIN").
• Formula (for the International Path): LEN(@Trigger.out.DeptCode) = 6
• Logic:
  • @Trigger.out.DeptCode: Pulls the text string provided by the user in the trigger step.
  • LEN(...): Counts the characters in that string.
  • Result: If the user enters a 6-character code, the formula returns TRUE, and the workflow follows the specific path designed for international approvals.