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Flag and find blocked work in Jira

By Jens Schumacher, former Head of Product for Jira · Updated

Use a flag to draw attention to a blocked work item, then add a comment explaining what needs to happen next. A flag, a workflow status named Blocked, and a “blocks” link describe different things. Choose a consistent convention before building your review queue.

Blocked work

The flag action is available from software boards and backlogs in both space types.

  1. Flag the work item

    Open the card’s More actions → Add flag. Jira highlights flagged work. Add a short explanation when prompted, or leave a comment on the item.

  2. Record the unblock action

    For example: “Waiting for the API test credentials. Morgan will request access today; review tomorrow.” Include an owner and next action instead of only writing “blocked.”

  3. Find the flagged queue

    Use Jira search with Flagged = Impediment. To focus on unfinished flagged work, add AND statusCategory != Done. Restrict the search to the relevant spaces.

  4. Bring the queue into the board

    Use that condition in a company-managed quick filter or a team-managed custom filter. The filter only includes work already in the board’s scope. Link the saved search when the review needs to span more spaces.

  5. Remove the flag when the impediment is resolved

    Record what changed, remove the flag, and check whether the work should move forward. Removing a flag does not itself transition the item.

Good to know

A dependency is not automatically an impediment.

  • A “blocks” link records a relationship. It can exist before the dependency delays any work.
  • A Blocked status is part of your workflow. A flag can mark a work item while it remains In progress or Review.
  • Do not assume the Flagged query also finds every item with a Blocked status or dependency link. If the team uses several conventions, document and query them deliberately.

FAQ

Can I flag work without creating a Blocked status?
Yes. Flagging is separate from the workflow and does not require introducing another status.
Will flags follow the work item to another board?
A flag is stored on the work item. Another board can show it if that board includes the item and the viewer has access.

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