Frequently asked questions

Last updated 2026-09-28

How do I visualize issue dependencies in Jira Cloud?

Install LinkLens, open a project and select Dependencies in the sidebar. Pick a link type such as Blocks and every chain of that type in the project is drawn as cards and arrows, blockers on the left, blocked work on the right. Native Jira only lists links on one issue at a time.

Does it show the whole chain or just direct links?

The whole chain. If F1 blocks F2, F2 blocks F3 and F3 blocks F4, you see all four in a row. The issue panel follows up to 5 hops in each direction; the project page shows every chain in the scope.

Which link types can I use?

Any link type on your site: Blocks, Cloners, Duplicate, Relates or custom types created by your admin. You pick one type at a time; both of its directions are used automatically.

Which direction do the arrows point?

From the outward end to the inward end of the link. For Blocks, A → B means A blocks B. The legend under the canvas restates this for the type you picked. See Link types and direction.

Can I see dependencies across projects?

Yes. Issues in other projects that are linked to issues in your scope appear as dimmed outside scope cards. To expand their chains too, widen the JQL scope, for example project in (ABC, XYZ).

Does it detect circular dependencies?

Yes. Loops are drawn with a red dashed closing arrow and listed under the canvas as keys.

Can I create or delete links from the graph?

Not in this version; LinkLens is read-only, which keeps it simple to approve. Editing links from the canvas is on the roadmap. Use Jira's Link work item action for now.

Does it include epics, stories and sub-tasks as a hierarchy?

Not yet. Parent/child relationships are not drawn as edges; only issue links of the chosen type are. A toggle for hierarchy edges is planned.

How large a project can it handle?

Up to 2,000 issues per graph on the project page and 300 issues per issue panel. Narrow the JQL scope or tick Hide Done for very large projects.

Does it work with team-managed projects, JSM and Jira Work Management?

Yes. Issue links behave the same in every Jira Cloud project type, so LinkLens works in Jira Software, Jira Work Management and Jira Service Management, team-managed and company-managed.

Does any data leave my Atlassian site?

No. LinkLens runs entirely on Atlassian's Forge platform with no external servers. It stores only each project's chosen link type, JQL scope and Hide Done setting, inside your Atlassian site. Issue data is read as the person viewing it, so Jira permissions are always respected.

How much does it cost?

Free for sites with up to 10 users. Above that, about USD 0.20 per user per month (roughly USD 10 for a 50-user site, USD 20 for 100 users, and USD 25-100 for larger sites) billed by Atlassian, 30-day free trial.

Can I export the graph?

Yes. PNG downloads the whole graph at double resolution with a legend, ready for Confluence or slides.

Does it follow Jira dark mode?

Yes. The canvas and toolbar follow your Jira theme. Exports are always light so they print well.

Is it available for Jira Data Center?

No. LinkLens is a Jira Cloud (Forge) app only.

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