Interface Terminology

Whether you're new to ServiceNow or preparing for a certification, understanding the platform's interface terminology is essential. ServiceNow's modern user experience is built around several key interface components that help users navigate applications, access information, and complete work efficiently. Understanding this interface vocabulary is the first step toward navigating the platform with confidence and efficiency.

Next Experience UI

The Next Experience UI is ServiceNow's modern user interface framework designed to provide a more intuitive, consistent, and personalized user experience across the platform.

The Next Experience UI replaces older navigation patterns with a streamlined design that helps users access applications, workspaces, and tasks more efficiently. It offers improved usability, customizable navigation, enhanced search capabilities, and a responsive design that works across different devices. This interface serves as the foundation for the current ServiceNow user experience.

Banner Frame

The Banner Frame is the top section of the ServiceNow interface that contains global navigation and system-wide controls.

The banner frame typically includes elements such as the company logo, search functionality, notifications, user profile menu, settings, and other global actions. Because it remains visible throughout a user's session, it provides quick access to common platform functions regardless of the application being used.

Application Navigator

The Application Navigator is the navigation panel that allows users to browse and access ServiceNow applications, modules, and menus.

Located on the left side of the interface, the Application Navigator organizes platform functionality into applications and modules. Users can search for specific modules, expand application menus, and quickly move between different areas of the platform. The navigator serves as the primary method for accessing records, reports, administration tools, and business applications.

Content Frame

The Content Frame is the main workspace area where application content, records, forms, lists, dashboards, and other information are displayed.

When a user selects an item from the Application Navigator, the corresponding page opens in the Content Frame. This area occupies the largest portion of the screen and serves as the primary location where users view, create, and update data. Whether working with incident records, service requests, reports, or dashboards, users spend most of their time interacting with content displayed within this frame.