How can I automatically move issues to a "Blocked" status when another issue blocks it

Question

Hi, I have 4 board columns: To Do, In Progress, Done, and Blocked.

I've set it so there's no way to manually transition an issue to blocked. I would like to instead automatically set the issue as blocked when another issue has a "blocks...", or if the main issue is set with "is blocked by...".

And then, if possible, I'd like to also set that task back to In Progress when all the issues that block it are completed.

Is this possible with the current Automation features in JIRA?

Bill Sheboy · Answer

Hi @Ali Camlibel

One alternative is not having a "blocked" column on the board.

The columns of a board typically reflect the process the team follows.  When there is a "blocked" column, the team is saying that situation is a normal part of their process...and they just accept that situation.

Another way to handle this is have the board represent your normal process.  And, if something is blocked to use the "flag" feature to indicate that impediment, that abnormal condition.  This flag can be enabled manually (with a right-click) or with an automation rule (as you appear to be checking for linked issues of type "blocks").

One added benefit of this is the team can always see how much work is in progress, even if it is blocked.  This may incentivize them to work on clearing the blocking issue sooner.

Kind regards,
Bill

Fabian Lim · Answer

Hi Ali,

Yes this is possible.

Rule 1:

* Trigger: issue linked (https://support.atlassian.com/cloud-automation/docs/jira-automation-triggers/)
* Conditions: Some conditions on issue type...
* Action: transition ticket to new status

Rule 2:

* You can refer to this post: https://community.atlassian.com/t5/Automation-discussions/Jira-Automation-Video-Tutorial-on-how-to-keep-Parent-and/td-p/1783535 (instead of using parent-subtask, you can specify the link type relatinship)

Regards