5

Programming BCS Solutions in SharePoint 2010

WHAT’S IN THIS CHAPTER?

  • Learn the BDC Server Runtime object model
  • Learn to use Complex and Unsupported types
  • Learn to use BCS in workflow solutions
  • Learn the BDC Administration object model

In the first few chapters of the book, significant attention was paid to creating BCS solutions with little coding. However, there are many situations in which the limitations of no-code solutions make it necessary to write custom components. This chapter advances the discussion of custom coding in BCS by presenting several key server-side technologies, including the BDC object models, workflow techniques, and approaches to overcoming data limitations. This information forms the foundation for custom solutions built on External Lists, custom web parts, web services, InfoPath forms, and workflows.

WORKING WITH THE BDC SERVER RUNTIME OBJECT MODEL

The BDC Server Runtime object model is the API used to write custom solutions that run on the SharePoint 2010 server and use BCS artifacts. Using the object model is fairly straightforward and gives you significant control over how and when operations are performed. Additionally, using the object model allows you to create completely custom user interface elements such as console applications and web parts.

The BDC Server Runtime object model is contained in the Microsoft.SharePoint.dll and Microsoft.BusinessData.dll assemblies. Both of these assemblies are located in the ISAPI directory. Any solution ...

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