Published at: 2026-09-17

Time zone and regional format FAQ

This page explains common differences, precedence rules, and troubleshooting steps for time zones and regional formats.

What is the difference between a time zone and a regional format?

A time zone determines the local time used to display the same instant. It can move the displayed date to the previous or next day.
A regional format determines how dates, times, and numbers are written. It does not change an instant, translate interface text, or convert currencies.

Why did the display remain unchanged for some employees after the enterprise default time zone was changed?

The enterprise default does not overwrite a personal time zone that an employee has already saved. To validate the enterprise default, use a test account that has not set a personal time zone. Then compare it with an account that has saved a personal time zone to validate personal preferences.

Why does the same record show a different date or time for different employees?

For a Date/Time field, the system displays the value in the viewer’s personal time zone. The same instant can fall on different dates in different time zones. First confirm the field type, then compare personal time zones, the enterprise default time zone, and the test instant. Do not treat Date and Date/Time fields as equivalent.

In what order should I troubleshoot a page time that does not match expectations?

Confirm the current account’s personal time zone.
Confirm the enterprise default time zone.
Confirm the device time zone and whether device time-zone synchronization has run.
Check whether the test date involves daylight saving time or crosses a day boundary.
Record the page, field type, original instant, and expected result before submitting an issue.

Does automatic device time-zone synchronization provide full manual time-zone settings on mobile?

No. Automatic device time-zone synchronization prompts for or synchronizes the device’s current time zone. It does not provide a complete manual time-zone setting entry point on mobile.

What should I do when the format differs only in print, export, or reports?

First check whether the same field is correct on the web page. Then record the regional format, field type, output method, and expected format. When only one output surface is affected, troubleshoot that surface’s adaptation instead of changing the enterprise default.