Dynamics Community Forum Thread Details

Is there any solution that will allow me (perhaps with Java) to create a custom Dynamics 365 view that has rows that expand in height if a multiline field in one column has more than one line of data?

In other words, I want to emulate an Excel spreadsheet where cells with wrapping cause the row to resize as they are populated / edited with content.

The only other requirement is that it also allows me to set it up with Editable Grid controls, which I already know how to do and have enabled on the entity.

Otherwise, just the usual interface (user can edit columns, edit filters, resize columns, etc.)

For bonus points though: It would be ideal if I could freeze the left column (or two) so it remains visible as we scroll right (the table likely won't fit on one screen).

Categories:

Dynamics 365 general

Hello GBarkin,

You've presented a challenging but interesting requirement: creating a custom Dynamics 365 view that dynamically resizes rows based on multiline field content, while also supporting Editable Grids and potentially freezing columns.

Unfortunately, achieving this directly within the standard Dynamics 365 view framework using only Java is not possible. Here's why and what alternatives you have:

Limitations of Standard Dynamics 365 Views:

Fixed Row Heights: Dynamics 365 views, including those with Editable Grids, have fixed row heights. They do not dynamically adjust based on content.
Client-Side Rendering: The view rendering is handled by the Dynamics 365 client-side JavaScript framework, not by server-side Java.
Limited Customization: While Editable Grids offer some customization, they don't provide the level of control needed for dynamic row resizing.

Solutions and Workarounds:

Power Apps Component Framework (PCF):
- This is the most viable and recommended approach.
- PCF allows you to build custom components that can be embedded within Dynamics 365 views, forms, and dashboards.
- Implementation:
  - Use TypeScript and React (or another JavaScript framework) to create a custom PCF control.
  - In your control, you can:
    - Retrieve the data from Dynamics 365.
    - Render the data in an HTML table.
    - Use JavaScript to dynamically adjust row heights based on the content of multiline fields.
    - Implement column freezing using CSS or a JavaScript library.
  - You can also implement the editable grid functionality within the PCF control.
- Advantages:
  - Provides complete control over the rendering and behavior of the view.
  - Allows you to implement complex UI features.
  - Integrates seamlessly with Dynamics 365.
- Disadvantages:
  - Requires significant development effort and web development skills.
  - Requires knowledge of typescript, and frameworks such as React.
Canvas App Embedding:
- You could create a Canvas app that replicates the functionality of a Dynamics 365 view.
- You can connect to the Dataverse data, and display it in a table within the canvas app.
- You have much more control over the look and feel of the app, and you can implement the dynamic row height functionality.
- You can then embed the canvas app within a Dynamics 365 form.
- Advantages:
  - Provides a high degree of customization.
  - Relatively easier to learn than PCF controls.
- Disadvantages:
  - It's not a direct replacement for a Dynamics 365 view.
  - It will not allow you to easily edit the data inline like an editable grid.
  - It's an embedded app, not a standard view.
Third-Party Grid Controls:
- Explore third-party grid controls that integrate with Dynamics 365.
- Some vendors may offer grid controls with advanced features like dynamic row resizing.
- Advantages:
  - Might save development time.
- Disadvantages:
  - May incur additional costs.
  - May have limitations in terms of customization.
  - Still needs to be compatible with Editable Grids.

Why Java Is Not Suitable:

Client-Side Focus: Dynamics 365 views are rendered on the client-side (in the browser), not on the server-side.
JavaScript Ecosystem: The Dynamics 365 client-side framework relies heavily on JavaScript and related technologies.
Limited Integration: Java is not directly integrated with the Dynamics 365 client-side rendering engine.

Key Recommendation:

PCF is the best option. It provides the flexibility and control needed to implement your requirements.

Bonus Points (Column Freezing):

Column freezing can be achieved in a PCF control using CSS or a JavaScript library that provides grid functionality.
Many Javascript libraries exist that can provide the freeze column functionality.

In summary, while your desired functionality is not achievable with standard Dynamics 365 views or Java, PCF provides a powerful platform for building custom views that meet your specific needs.

If my answer was helpful, please click Like, and if it solved your problem, please mark it as verified to help other community members find more.
If you have further questions, please feel free to contact me.

My response was crafted with AI assistance and tailored to provide detailed and actionable guidance for your Microsoft Dynamics 365 query.

Best Regards,
Daivat Vartak