Skip to main content
Version: Version 22

Canvases

Introduction​

What is a canvas?
A canvas is a customizable template for displaying and editing information. Canvases allow you to decide what information should be shown, where it should be shown, and in what context (e.g., during a process step, on a kanban list, or in a status update).

Purpose of a canvas
The purpose of a canvas is to make information visible and editable at the right time in the process. For example, you may want to highlight business case information in the initiative phase of a portfolio item, but show progress and results in the execution phase.

Main features​

  • Customizable display
    Decide exactly which information is shown for a project, portfolio item, or other object.

  • Flexible use
    Canvases can be added to lists, kanban boards, and pages such as project planning or portfolio funnels.

  • Segment types
    Build canvases by combining different segments such as fields, lists, financials, objectives, or other specialized types.

  • Drag & resize
    Arrange and resize segments freely on the canvas to group related information or give more room to important items.

  • Help text, icons, and colors
    Add context and visual cues to segments so that users understand what information is expected.

  • Dynamic content
    Canvases can display standard FCC fields or custom fields defined by your organization.

How to create a canvas​

  1. Define the purpose
    Decide what the canvas should display (e.g., business case details, project progress). Keeping a clear purpose prevents canvases from becoming too cluttered.

  2. Create a template

    • Click the ⋮ menu.
    • Go to Configure canvasses (if this option does not appear, go to the model of the portfolio/project/etc.).
    • Click Add canvas template.
    • Give the template a clear name(use numbering to order the templates correctly).

  3. Add segments

    • Click + Add segment to insert new content blocks.
    • Choose a segment type (e.g., fields, list, financial estimation).
    • Configure the segment by setting a title, icon, color, and optional help text.
    • Arrange segments by dragging them or resizing as needed.

  4. Save and configure usage

    • Save the template by clicking outside of the popup.
    • Add the canvas to a tab or list via Add canvas configuration.
    • Choose where the canvas should be visible (specific lists (phases) or in all lists). Eg. an execution canvas should not be displayed in the idea phase.

Using a canvas​

  • Open a portfolio item, project, or kanban card to see its canvas.
  • Fill in information directly in the canvas segments.
  • Data may come from other FCC tabs (e.g., balancing tab), so not all fields are editable directly in the canvas.
  • Users with the right roles can update the canvas; others may only view the information.

Best practices​

  • Keep it focused: each canvas should serve a clear purpose.
  • Use help texts: guide users on what to fill in and why.
  • Leverage colors and icons: make important information easy to spot.
  • Reuse templates: create templates that can be applied consistently across projects or portfolios.