Parent Column References

Subitem formulas can reference columns from the parent item. This allows you to inherit, compare, or derive values across the parent-subitem hierarchy.

Parent's Syntax

Add the prefix Parent's before the column name:

{Parent's Column Name}

This works for all supported column types — simple and complex. For complex columns, add the property after the column name:

{Parent's Column Name#Property}

Examples:

{Parent's Status}                    → parent item's status label
{Parent's Due Date}                  → parent item's date value
{Parent's People Column#Names}       → comma-separated names from parent
{Parent's Timeline#Start}            → parent item's timeline start date

Reference the parent item's name:

{Parent's Name}

The autocomplete in the formula editor lists all available parent columns with the Parent's prefix — start typing {Parent's to see suggestions.

Parent to Subitem Sync

When a parent column value changes, all subitem formulas referencing that column recalculate automatically. This enables patterns like:

• Inherit project status — subitems reflect the parent's current status
• Copy deadline — subitem date columns derive from the parent's due date
• Derive owner — subitem formulas use the parent's assignee for notifications

The sync is event-driven: Formula Trigga detects the parent column change and triggers recalculation on each subitem that references it.

Limitations

• Subitems only. Parent references work only in subitem formulas. Main board items cannot use {Parent's ...} syntax.
• No grandparent or sibling references. You can reference one level up (parent) but not further. Subitems cannot reference other subitems' columns.
• Parent board columns only. The available parent columns come from the parent board's column set. The resolution is automatic — no manual configuration needed.

Next Steps

• Subitem Rollup References — aggregate subitem values in parent formulas
• Recipes and Patterns — ready-to-use formulas for common workflows
• Supported Columns — target columns, source columns, and column properties
• Troubleshooting — health view, common errors, FAQ, and support