From early November 2022, we’ll be updating some fields in Xero Practice Manager (XPM) and Xero HQ. This is all part of our work to provide you with a more unified client record in the future, so you can enjoy a seamless connection between our practice tools.

What’s changing in XPM and Xero HQ

Over the coming weeks, the fields in your practice tools will look a little different. Here’s an overview of what’s changing and when.

From 1 November 2022, the first name and last name fields in your Xero Ask email template will be replaced with one single name field, which will include the full name of your contact.

The following changes will come into effect from 8 November 2022:

• XPM will have a mandatory display name field for individual and sole trader client types that can be edited, instead of an auto-generated field that you can’t edit (first name and last name fields will remain, but will be optional)
• First and last name fields for contacts in Xero HQ will become one single name field rather than two
• A new display name field in Xero HQ will now be mandatory for individual and sole trader client types (first name and last name fields will remain, but will be optional). For connected practices, previous client list settings from XPM will also be reflected in Xero HQ
• Relationships in Xero HQ will now be known as additional contacts to match the language used in XPM, and located in the sidebar on the right instead of the navigation bar on top

Most changes will apply to individual client types (like sole traders) and contacts you add or edit from 8 November 2022 onwards. Relationship changes will be available to all client types. You won’t have to go back and edit any existing records and no existing entries will get lost.

How display names will appear for existing individual client types

Once these changes take effect, your display name for existing individual client types will be in the same format as your client records. So if you have a client saved as ‘Last name, First name’, then the display name field for that client will appear in the same order.

If you notice some inconsistencies in how your client names are appearing, we suggest editing the impacted records manually. If you’d like to edit them in bulk, you can manually export and re-import your client list in your preferred format. If you’d like to standardise your client list ahead of these changes on 8 November 2022, you can update your settings.

Unlocking more value from our practice tools

This update is another crucial step we need to take to give you a more consistent and streamlined experience across our practice tools. We know these changes may take some getting used to, but we believe that taking the time to do it right will mean a better outcome for you in the long run. We’re deeply committed to delivering this and thank you for your patience as we work towards this goal.