Implementing Plugin Logic in Dataverse
Implementing Plugin Logic in Dataverse – Create Message
Dataverse plugins allow you to execute server-side logic in response to platform events such as Create, Update, or Delete. This section focuses on implementing logic for the Create message, where data can be validated, enriched, or controlled before or after it is saved to the database.
The Create message is triggered when a new record is saved in Dataverse. Plugins registered on this message are commonly used for enforcing business rules, setting default values, or creating related records automatically.
Accessing the Target Entity
The core of plugin logic begins with the Target entity. This object contains the attributes entered by the user during record creation. Defensive checks are mandatory to avoid runtime failures.
if(context.InputParameters.ContainsKey("Target") || context.InputParameters["Target"] == null || !(context.InputParameters["Target"] is Entity))
{
return;
}
Why Defensive Coding Matters
Plugins run inside the Dataverse execution pipeline. A single unhandled exception can block record creation and impact all users. Validating the presence and type of the Target entity ensures predictable, stable execution across environments.
Best practice: Never assume the Target exists. Never assume attribute values are populated. Plugins must be resilient by design.
Execution Stages
Registering the plugin in the correct stage determines its behavior:
- Pre-Operation: Modify data before it is committed to Dataverse.
- Post-Operation: Execute logic after the record is successfully created.
Choosing the wrong stage often leads to unexpected results or unnecessary performance overhead.
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