Chapter 5. Using the Business Data field type in lists and libraries

 

This chapter covers

  • Demonstrating the use of business data in lists and libraries
  • Creating custom list columns that display BDC data
  • Using data throughout Office via the Document Information panel
  • Customizing the Document Information panel with InfoPath
  • Building a custom field type that lists BDC entities

The Business Data field type is a type of field you can create, just like a Single Line of Text, Currency, or Date Time field type. Only it allows you to look up data from the LOB system and then store the data as metadata in a list item or document. We’re going to explore the out-of-the-box functionality of this field type, as well as look at improving it using InfoPath. We’ll then look at how to overcome additional issues by creating our own field type.

5.1. The Business Data field type

5.2. Customizing the Document Information panel with InfoPath 2007

5.3. Creating a SharePoint custom field type

5.4. Summary