Dynamics 365 administrators and power users often face the challenge of ensuring consistency across multiple views, especially when customizing layouts for various entities. This is where the View Layout Replicator plugin for XrmToolBox shines. It simplifies the process of replicating view layouts across entities, saving time and ensuring uniformity.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how to use the View Layout Replicator and why it’s a must-have tool in your Dynamics 365 toolkit.
What Is the View Layout Replicator?
The View Layout Replicator is a plugin available in XrmToolBox, a powerful toolset for Dynamics 365 and Power Platform administrators. It allows you to:
- Copy the column layout of one view and replicate it to other views or entities.
- Save time by avoiding manual configuration of each view.
- Maintain consistency across your organization’s data presentation.
Key Features
- Copy Layouts Across Views
Copy the layout (columns, order, and width) from one view and apply it to others in the same or different entities. - Bulk Updates
Apply layout changes to multiple views at once, significantly reducing manual effort. - User-Friendly Interface
The intuitive interface makes it easy to select source views and target views for replication. - Flexibility
Choose specific fields or apply the entire layout, ensuring tailored replication as needed.
Why Use View Layout Replicator?
- Save Time: No need to manually configure views for every entity or scenario. A few clicks can replicate the layout to multiple views.
- Ensure Consistency: Align view layouts across entities to maintain a professional and user-friendly experience.
- Reduce Errors: Manual configurations often lead to mistakes; automation ensures accuracy.
- Ease of Use: Works seamlessly with the XrmToolBox environment, making it accessible to all Dynamics 365 admins.
How to Use the View Layout Replicator
Step 1: Install XrmToolBox
If you don’t already have XrmToolBox, download and install it from XrmToolBox.
Step 2: Connect to Your Dynamics 365 Environment
- Open XrmToolBox and set up a connection to your Dynamics 365 environment using the connection wizard.
Step 3: Install View Layout Replicator
- Search for View Layout Replicator in the XrmToolBox plugin store.
- Install the plugin and launch it.
Step 4: Select the Source View
- Choose the entity and view that contains the layout you want to replicate.
- The plugin will display the columns, order, and widths of the selected view.
Step 5: Select Target Views
- Choose the target entity/entities and the views where you want to replicate the layout.
- You can select multiple views for bulk replication.
Step 6: Apply the Changes
- Click the Replicate button to copy the layout to the selected target views.
- Verify the changes in Dynamics 365 to ensure the layout was applied correctly.