Can I create an Automation to move a work item (story/bug) to the top of the backlog?

[Sean Hearne]

Hi, My team wants to be able to move something to the top of the backlog (not from the backlog screen).  Is there a simple automation I can create? 

[Bill Sheboy · Accepted solution]

Hi @Sean Hearne -- Welcome to the Atlassian Community!

That is possible with an automation rule, although it is not simple it is doable.

First thing, when do you want to do this?  That is, what is the triggering event to rank the work item to the top of the backlog?

Next, there is a REST API endpoint to change the Rank order of an work item relative to another one.  Thus, the approach would be to:

1. Some event happens to start the rule for your work item to rank higher
2. Using JQL and the Lookup Work Items action, identify the first work item in the backlog
3. Call the endpoint, passing both the first work item and the one you want to place before it (i.e., the trigger work item)

If you want to try this, here are some references to help:

• article on how to call an endpoint with the Send Web Request action: https://community.atlassian.com/forums/Jira-articles/Automation-for-Jira-Send-web-request-using-Jira-REST-API/ba-p/1443828
• endpoint to rank issues: https://developer.atlassian.com/cloud/jira/software/rest/api-group-issue/#api-group-issue
• documentation on Lookup Work Items action: https://support.atlassian.com/cloud-automation/docs/jira-automation-actions/#Lookup-issues
• JQL and searching for work items: https://support.atlassian.com/jira-software-cloud/docs/use-advanced-search-with-jira-query-language-jql/

Kind regards,
Bill

[Taliah15]

Well @Bill Sheboy has described all the steps very clearly. You should follow him if you want to create this. And thank you so much @Bill Sheboy for such an amazing guideline.

[Sean Hearne]

I will do that.  thanks for the quick solution alternatives. 

[Taliah15]

You are always welcome @Sean Hearne 

[Taliah15]

Hello @Sean Hearne Hope so all will be doing very well. 

Absolutely! You can create a simple automation that triggers when you move a task (from anywhere) and instantly shifts it to the top of your backlog, no need to open the backlog screen. This keeps your workflow smooth and your priorities clear—effortless backlog mastery! Want the quick steps to set it up?

[Sean Hearne]

yes please. that would be awesome

[Taliah15]

Has your issue resolved Or Do you still want quick steps to set it up? @Sean Hearne