ANS-0145 · SAVED SEARCHES & FORMULAS

How to Resolve Unexpected Errors When Sorting by Long Text in NetSuite Saved Searches

Learn how to prevent "Unexpected Errors" in NetSuite saved searches by converting long text fields to formula fields for reliable sorting.

Short answer

When sorting NetSuite saved search results by a long text field, users may encounter "Unexpected Errors." To resolve this, convert the long text field to a Formula Field (Text) within the saved search criteria. This method allows for consistent sorting of long text content, providing a reliable workaround for this common issue.

Scenario

Users attempting to sort NetSuite saved search results by a long text field may occasionally encounter "Unexpected Errors." This issue typically arises when the system struggles to process the sorting operation directly on the complex long text data type, leading to an unhandled exception.

Solution

Sorting by long text fields in NetSuite saved searches can sometimes lead to "Unexpected Errors." While NetSuite Support may suggest sorting by an alternative column, a more direct solution exists if sorting by the long text content is absolutely needed. To enable sorting for a long text field, it must first be converted to a Formula Field (Text) within the saved search definition. This approach allows the system to process the field as a text string, making it sortable and preventing unexpected errors.

Expert NetSuite Support

Need help with this NetSuite issue?

Saved Searches & Formulas consulting and configuration support

Talk to a consultant