Marcel Chabot
@aardvarklabs.bsky.social
📤 7
đź“Ą 8
đź“ť 54
Development Practice Manager, Maker, Mad Scientist, Father, Microsoft MVP.
Friday again, and this week's lab notes is something that should help out when starting a new project. It isn't uncommon for me to need to start the coding before the environment is available. AL 17 allows us to download symbols from NuGet. I can get the latest symbols anytime!
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Streamline Your AL Development with Global NuGet Symbols
Lab Notes #3 There have been a few instances where I wanted to start development on a Business Central extension, but the client system isn't ready. You need to download Business Central symbols, so where do you go? I could go grab symbols from another project or point to another Business Central environment. There is another option in Business Central AL 17.0: You can download symbols from the Global NuGet feeds.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2026/01/16/streamline-your-al-development-with-global-nuget-symbols/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
6 days ago
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Another Lab Note coming at your this Friday. This week a walk through some of the technology available for debugging Business Event Subscriptions. This came in handy assisting a client in connecting to a custom Business Event, I hope it help you out too.
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Debugging Business Event Subscriptions in Business Central
The post discusses troubleshooting Business Event Subscriptions in Business Central, following Tonya Bricco-Meske's insights on hidden Event Subscription Pages. It highlights essential pages for debugging, including the Business Event Subscriptions, Activity Log, and Notifications pages, providing users with tools to resolve issues when subscribing to events.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2026/01/09/debugging-business-event-subscriptions-in-business-central/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
13 days ago
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Happy Friday. This week I want to thank everyone for an amazing year, and I want to share some of the highlights with everyone. I have had a great year of growth and learning. I hope your year has been exciting and fulfilling. I'm looking forward to the challenges that come next. Happy New Year!
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2025 Highlights: Engaging Moments in Business Central Events
In 2025, I connected with the Business Central community through events, podcasts, and panels, sharing knowledge and fostering discussions on relevant topics. My blog, Aardvark Labs, exceeded expectations with over 2200 monthly views. Exciting plans for 2026 include more blog posts, video series, and a special Dynamics Con event.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/12/26/2025-highlights-engaging-moments-in-business-central-events/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
27 days ago
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Happy Friday. I'm testing out a new blog format. It is a challenge I've faced and a Solution. These posts are quick and to the point. I'm calling them "Lab Notes". Let me know what you think.
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Managing Optional Extensions in Business Central ALÂ Code
The post discusses handling two clients with similar requirements, one using an optional third-party extension, Binary Stream Multi-Entity Management. It explains a procedure for creating General Journals while selectively interacting with extension fields. The code checks for the extension's installation, ensuring compatibility without creating dependencies, enabling flexible system functioning.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/12/19/managing-optional-extensions-in-business-central-al-code/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
about 1 month ago
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Happy Friday! I've been posting file parsing examples and I've come to the XML format. Here is an example of how to parse a cXML file. Do you still see XML files in the wild? I also have to admit; I had a love for XML that may have been based on some rose-colored history :-). Have a great weekend!
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Importing XML into Business Central with AL
The post discusses the use of XML, specifically cXML, in data exchange within Business Central. It highlights the challenges of strict adherence to XML standards compared to more flexible formats like JSON. The author then provides a parsed example of a cXML purchase order, detailing the process of extracting information from the XML structure.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/12/12/importing-xml-into-business-central-with-al/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
about 1 month ago
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Happy Friday! This weeks post returns to our series of data import concepts and rounds out our Excel import with a Multi-Tab example. Excel is such a common data handling format, do you have any Excel format horror stories? Share your "favorites". Have a great weekend!
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Importing Multi-Tab Excel Files into Business Central
This post elaborates on importing multi-tab Excel data into Business Central, specifically focusing on a Header/Line relationship. It uses Sales Header and Detail tables, employing a dictionary to manage connections between headers and lines, ensuring efficient data linking during the import. The example showcases methods for parsing Excel files seamlessly.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/12/05/importing-multi-tab-excel-files-into-business-central/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
about 2 months ago
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Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours! No Aardvark Labs post this week, taking a week off to hang out with the family. I'll be back to posting weekly educational content next Friday.
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Happy Thanksgiving 2025
Wishing everyone a joyful Thanksgiving from my family to yours!
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/11/27/happy-thanksgiving-2025/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
about 2 months ago
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Happy Friday! This week we are introducing a gateway feature of Business Central: The User Control Host. This is going to start us down the path of exploring custom Business Central Controls in HTML/JavaScript. Enjoy and have a great weekend!
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Understanding User Control Host in Business Central
In this Business Central AL Journey installment, the author introduces Custom Controls for data input and display, emphasizing the use of JavaScript and HTML5. The new User Control Host page type enables embedding web pages, such as Power BI reports, into Business Central, providing a foundational step toward developing custom controls for enhanced user interaction.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/11/21/understanding-user-control-host-in-business-central/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
2 months ago
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Happy Friday! A quick post about a new feature in Business Central 27.1: The Concealed Text field. I've needed this feature for a long time, and I'm glad it is available. Let me know if you have been waiting as well. Have a great weekend!
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How to Use Concealed Text Fields in Business Central AL
Business Central offers tools to secure sensitive data, including Secret Text and Isolated Storage. The recent update, Business Central 27.1, introduces the Concealed Text Field, enabling masked input for sensitive entries to enhance privacy. This feature is easily activated in the Feature Management page and applies to various field types.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/11/14/how-to-use-concealed-text-fields-in-business-central-al/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
2 months ago
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A fantastic fall Friday, a great day for another helpful code unit! This week we take a look at the Environmental Information Code Unit. It can really be helpful when you want to perform specific actions based on details about which environment you are in. Have fun!
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Understanding AL Development: Environmental Information Code Unit
The codeunit 457 "Environment Information" in Business Central helps manage extension behavior based on the environment type. It includes functions like IsProduction and IsSandbox to determine the environment and adjust operations accordingly, such as altering email procedures for Sandbox environments and handling SaaS versus OnPremises distinctions effectively.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/11/07/understanding-al-development-environmental-information-code-unit/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
3 months ago
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Happy Friday. This week we explore an application of CoPilot to simplify the handling of field service technicians notes and turn them into something appropriate to share with a customer on a Sales Invoice. It is a great application of AI and a fun use case. Enjoy!
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Using CoPilot to Upgrade Service Notes for Invoices in Business Central AL
A client requires enhanced service technician notes for customer-facing invoices in Business Central. The solution involves employing CoPilot to transform these notes into clear summaries. This implementation includes creating a table for resolution notes and integrating prompts for user input, ultimately streamlining the invoice generation and improving client communication.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/10/31/using-copilot-to-upgrade-service-notes-for-invoices-in-business-central-al/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
3 months ago
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Happy Friday! A few weeks ago I dove into the Type Helper code unit. I was alerted to the String Conversion Management code unit as another great support code unit. I couldn't agree more! Here is a write up on a small, but powerful code unit. Have a great weekend!
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Understanding AL Development: String Conversion Management Code Unit
In a previous post we reviewed the Type Helper Code Unit and its collection of useful procedures. There are several other helper code units, and this week we will review the String Conversion Management Code Unit. If you haven't seen the post about the Type Helper, you can find it here: This particular helper stems from the .NET System.Text objects.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/10/24/understanding-al-development-string-conversion-management-code-unit/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
3 months ago
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Business Central Wave 2 is bringing some important new features to the Page Scripting tool. These features include arbitrary delete, drag and drop reorder, insert steps, parameters, and sub scripts! Check them out and watch for their release in your Business Central.
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Top Improvements in Business Central Page Scripting in Release 2025 Wave 2
The Page Scripting tool has been improved in Business Central 2025 Wave 2, addressing key challenges. Users can now delete steps, insert new ones without re-recording, rearrange steps via drag and drop, add parameters through the UI, and utilize previously generated scripts, making the scripting process more user-friendly and efficient.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/10/17/top-improvements-in-business-central-page-scripting-in-release-2025-wave-2/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
3 months ago
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Business Central 2025 Wave 2 introduces a faster way to delete data: Truncate. How much faster is it? Well, I spent a few hours creating a deleting records to bring you the results. Check out this week's Aardvark Labs blog and see the winner. More interestingly how much faster is the winner.
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Truncate vs. DeleteAll: Speed in Dynamics 365 Business Central AL
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central 2025 Release Wave 2 (Version 27.0) introduces a new, more efficient way to delete large volumes of data: Truncate. My first question is, how much faster is it? I setup a little experiment. I created a routine to generate 500,000 records. Which took 127,676 millisecond or about 2 minutes. I then deleted the records in one of three different ways.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/10/10/truncate-vs-deleteall-speed-in-dynamics-365-business-central-al/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
3 months ago
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Ever need a helping hand? This week we are looking at the Type Helper Code Unit in Business Central. This code unit has 74 helpful procedures in it and we will be making use of it a lot as we delve into API integration in the near future. Have a great weekend!
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Understanding AL Development: The Type Helper Code Unit
The Type Helper code unit in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central encapsulates reusable logic for tasks like data formatting, localization, and type conversion. With 74 procedures, it simplifies common operations in development, facilitating API handling. The helper enhances modularity and efficiency by offloading routine functionality to callable units.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/10/03/understanding-al-development-the-type-helper-code-unit/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
4 months ago
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Happy Friday! Can you keep a secret? Well Business Central can! Take a look at what we can do with the SecretText. This is important to keep things like API keys safe. Enjoy and have a great weekend!
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Securing Sensitive Data in Business Central AL using SecretText
The content discusses the importance of keeping sensitive data secret while developing extensions for Business Central, particularly in relation to Azure OpenAI and API keys. It introduces the SecretText variable, which protects confidential information from debuggers and other users. The implementation includes generating JSON objects securely with secret values.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/09/26/securing-sensitive-data-in-business-central-al-using-secrettext/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
4 months ago
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Did you know that as a Business Central AL Developer you have access to two different implementation methods for OpenAI/CoPilot? There are the ones you can create in Azure OpenAI, and the one Managed by Business Central. There are reasons to use both, check out this week's post to learn more.
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Azure OpenAI in Business Central AL: Managed vs Unmanaged
The post discusses two authentication methods for integrating AI in Business Central: using an Azure OpenAI instance or a Managed OpenAI Resource. While the Azure instance provides control over model deployment, the Managed Resource reduces costs and maintenance since it's included in Business Central. The Managed Resource also offers Grounded Bing Search capabilities, but comes with data containment concerns.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/09/19/azure-openai-in-business-central-al-managed-vs-unmanaged/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
4 months ago
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A lovely Friday in Fall, time for some Aardvark Labs! A few weeks ago I posted about importing delimited text files stuck to a single record type. This week we tackle the Header/Detail structure of a Sales Order. This is a common data import that has some interesting parsing challenges. Enjoy!
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Guide to Handling Header and Detail Imports into Business Central with AL
Earlier in our Delimited File Import example we imported and parsed a simple file into Customer records. While useful, there are many cases where a Header and Line system is required, such as Sales Orders. We are going to use concepts from that earlier post, so please take a moment and review if needed. There are two common structures for storing header and line data in a delimited file.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/09/12/guide-to-handling-header-and-detail-imports-into-business-central-with-al/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
4 months ago
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Welcome to a Friday customized just for you! Well, it would be if you were a Business Central Page and Page Customization object. You can customize pages in Business Central, but you can also create Page Customizations in AL. Take a look at what you can do beyond Page and Page Extensions. Have Fun!
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Step-by-Step Guide to Page Customizations for Business Central in AL
BC AL Journey #31 Pages and Page Extensions are a great way to create or update page layouts for Business Central. The issues are that they are "one size fits all", meaning that they are perfect for nobody. What is needed is a page layout that can be customized based on a user or more specifically a user profile. What we need is to be able to do is define a profile, then define customization to pages that are specific to that profile.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/09/05/step-by-step-guide-to-page-customizations-for-business-central-in-al/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
5 months ago
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Heads up to my Business Central API Users. BC Release 30 (2027 Wave 1) has some major changes to Business Central APIs and while it sounds like it is a long way away, this change can't wait for the last minute. Here is a write up of what is happening and what you can do to prepare.
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Business Central 2027 release wave 1: Preparing for OData Endpoint Removal
As of the writing of this the Business Central 2027 release wave 1 is 18+ months away, however the scope of this change leaves no time to waste. Currently in Business Central any Page can be a Web Service. You can use the magnifying glass, enter Web Services, and see a list of available Web Services. You can see the Customer Card API is a Page with the object ID of 21.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/09/02/business-central-2027-release-wave-1-preparing-for-odata-endpoint-removal/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
5 months ago
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This fantastic Friday we are going to go back to CoPilot/Azure OpenAI and solve a challenging problem: Address Matching. I've tried several different technologies in the past, now let's see how AI handled the challenge. Spoiler Alert: Amazingly Well. Check out the BLOG for all the details.
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Enhancing Business Central with Address Validation AI
Address matching can be challenging due to various abbreviations and misspellings. The writer discusses integrating artificial intelligence to improve accuracy, utilizing tools like Azure OpenAI to evaluate address similarities. The system should return the closest matching address with a certainty percentage, aiding in data completeness within Business Central records.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/08/29/enhancing-business-central-with-address-validation-ai/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
5 months ago
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I hope you are having an Excel-lent day! This week we are continuing our file import exploration with everyone's favorite spreadsheet, Microsoft Excel. Excel is such a popular tool, having the ability to create interactive imports from Excel files is a huge benefit to users. Have a great weekend!
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Step by Step Guide to Importing Excel Data into Business Central
Microsoft Excel is the leading data management application, widely used despite mixed opinions. The content discusses importing data into a temporary staging table using Excel files. It outlines steps to define columns, manage item records, and implement the import process with specific procedures for handling Excel data, ensuring clarity and efficiency.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/08/22/step-by-step-guide-to-importing-excel-data-into-business-central/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
5 months ago
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It is a delightful Friday to learn something! This week we are looking at parsing data from CSV files. This goes along with our previous JSON import, and we will see Excel imports in the coming weeks. There is a lot we can do with file imports, and we are going to take a deep dive! Have a great day!
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Best Practices for Handling Delimited Data Imports into Business Central
Delimited files, commonly used for data transfer, separate data with various delimiters (e.g., CSV, pipe). These files are unstructured and flat, lacking validation between records. Implementing a temporary staging table ensures data integrity during customer imports. The process involves uploading a file, parsing, and storing customer records systematically for further processing.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/08/15/best-practices-for-handling-delimited-data-imports-into-business-central/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
5 months ago
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Ready to give your next video meeting a glow up?! Here is a quick walk through of setting up OBS to transform your video camera feed into a studio production! This is great for meetings, presentations, or just adding that little extra to a training. Have a good time!
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Enhance Your Video Calls with OBSÂ Studio
In the remote working environment, video calls enhance participant engagement. Using OBS Studio can improve the video appearance during meetings. By configuring video and audio sources, adding images, and utilizing a green screen for better background removal, users can personalize their virtual presence. Activating the virtual camera finalizes the setup.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/08/13/enhance-your-video-calls-with-obs-studio/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
5 months ago
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You made it to Friday, well done. Polish off your week with a post from Aardvark Labs! We are looking at the RDLC Report this week. This one brings me back to my SSRS days and is near and dear to my heart. SSRS Reports were my first task here at TMG. Enjoy and have a great weekend!
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Understanding RDLC Reports in Business Central
The post explores Business Central's reporting technologies, focusing on RDLC reports, which allow self-hosting and data inclusion. Unlike Excel and Word reports, RDLC requires Microsoft Report Builder. Users can edit reports, manage element properties, and utilize datasets for advanced expressions, enhancing report precision. The technology integrates with Power BI for paginated reports.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/08/08/understanding-rdlc-reports-in-business-central/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
6 months ago
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Wow, Friday already. We are continuing our reporting journey in the BC AL Journey series. This week we are creating a super basic Word Report from scratch. Combined with what we learned editing reports last week; we can do a lot! I hope you enjoy the post and have a great weekend.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Word Reports in Business Central
BC AL Journey #29 focuses on creating a Microsoft Word report for Vendor Activity. Unlike Excel reports, Word reports require a custom layout through XML mapping. The process involves exporting the layout, configuring it, and then publishing the report to produce a structured document. This method offers enhanced layout capabilities for document-style reporting.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/08/01/step-by-step-guide-to-word-reports-in-business-central/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
6 months ago
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Happy Monday! Alexa has started a Blog about Cyber Security. She is really excited to share what she is learning and learn from everyone in the community. Please give her a warm welcome and enjoy her unique style. Together we may all be a little safer online.
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Simplifying Cyber Security: Insights from Code Squirrel Blog
The Code Squirrel Blog by Alexa aims to simplify complex tech concepts, particularly in cyber security, making them accessible and enjoyable. Through clear explanations of terms like "phishing" and "MFA," Alexa strives to educate readers on online safety, encouraging proactive measures for personal and professional security amid evolving challenges.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/07/28/simplifying-cyber-security-insights-from-code-squirrel-blog/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
6 months ago
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Happy Friday! We are continuing to work through reporting in our BC AL Journey. Reporting is one of the most difficult BC skills for me, making these some of the most challenging steps for me. Enjoy my struggles, and I hope I can help people learn some new skills. Have a great weekend!
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Easy Steps to Edit Word Reports in Business Central
In BC AL Journey #28, the focus shifts from Excel reports to modifying existing Word Reports, specifically the Sales Quote report. The tutorial covers enabling the Developer tab in Word, using XML Mapping for data sources, and adjusting layouts via tables. It emphasizes careful versioning and testing before uploading new reports to Business Central.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/07/25/easy-steps-to-edit-word-reports-in-business-central/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
6 months ago
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Friday, and that means another post from Aardvark Labs! That's what you've been looking forward to all week right? This week we are moving from Queries to Reports, and we are string with the Microsoft Excel Report. This is a fantastic place to start reporting and layout design. I hope you enjoy!
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Step-by-Step Guide to Excel Reporting in Business Central
In the BC AL Journey, the focus has been on data management within Business Central, leading to the complex area of reporting, distinct from Business Intelligence. Three reporting technologies are highlighted: Excel, Word, and RDLC, with Excel being most user-friendly. Users can create custom reports and maintain data integrity through updated layouts, enhancing reporting efficiency.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/07/18/step-by-step-guide-to-excel-reporting-in-business-central/
6 months ago
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Greetings, and happy Friday! This week we are continuing with the Business Central AL Query Objects and creating an API Query. This brings a few new elements in from our last query post and adds another tool to our reporting toolbox. Enjoy and have a great weekend!
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Step-by-Step Guide to Business Central APIÂ Queries
In BC AL Journey #26, the focus shifts to creating a Vendor Ledger API within Business Central, building on previous data analysis concepts. This API facilitates external access for tools like Power BI while ensuring read-only access. The post covers querying methods, code implementation, and initial steps for reporting in Power BI.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/07/11/step-by-step-guide-to-business-central-api-queries/
7 months ago
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Happy 4th of July! This week I'm taking a break from Business Central and sharing one of my favorite Quality of Life tools for Windows: PowerToys. If you don't have this installed already, take a look. If you do have it installed, what is your favorite tool? Have a great day and a fantastic weekend.
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Enhance Your Windows Experience with PowerToys
PowerToys, a utility for Windows users, enhances system functionality with tools for tasks like mouse tracking, image resizing, and color picking. Originally launched in 1996 and revived in 2019 as open-source, it offers both simple and advanced features. Users can customize settings, making it a valuable addition for improving productivity.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/07/04/enhance-your-windows-experience-with-powertoys/
7 months ago
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Happy Friday everyone! This week we are getting back to the BC AL Journey series as we visit Queries. This is Part 1 as we move into Queries, Reporting and more advanced API development. I'm very excited to get into this and I hope you enjoy it as well.
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Business Central Queries: Simplifying Complex Data
BC AL Journey #25 We have worked with Business Central tables and data a few different ways. We have displayed the data in Pages and accessed it in APIs and CodeUnits. This is great for single source data, where one table contains everything we need. Things quickly get complicated when we want to provide data that spans several tables, or we want to greatly simplify a data set from a complex table.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/06/27/business-central-queries-simplifying-complex-data/
7 months ago
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This week I'm going Low-Code Copilot Studio with Business Central. Join me to setup our first Copilot Studio Agent that can answer questions about Business Central Customers. I had a good time visiting team Low-Code and creating a rather capable agent in very little time. Have fun!
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Creating Low-Code AI Agents with Copilot Studio and Business Central
The content outlines the use of Copilot Studio to develop AI agents integrated with Business Central. It details the setup process, including adding tools and knowledge connectors, creating a basic agent, and publishing it to Teams. The process enhances data interaction, allowing users to derive insights and improve accounts receivable follow-ups.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/06/20/creating-low-code-ai-agents-with-copilot-studio-and-business-central/
7 months ago
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Friday again, and another Blog Post! This week we are looking at using AI as a part of a more complex, multi-step process. An AI output doesn't have to be the whole result; in this post we explore using AI as a step in a more complex process. I hope you enjoy it and have a great weekend!
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Implementing a Multi-Step Process for AI Recommendations in Business Central
This blog post illustrates a multi-step process of integrating AI with Business Central to generate item recommendations for sales orders. By using sales line descriptions, the AI provides a list of relevant items, facilitating user actions. It emphasizes that AI can play a supportive role rather than providing complete solutions.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/06/13/implementing-a-multi-step-process-for-ai-recommendations-in-business-central/
7 months ago
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Friday again, and another Blog Post! This week we are looking at using AI as a part of a more complex, multi-step process. An AI output doesn't have to be the whole result; in this post we explore using AI as a step in a more complex process. I hope you enjoy it and have a great weekend!
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Implementing a Multi-Step Process for AI Recommendations in Business Central
This blog post illustrates a multi-step process of integrating AI with Business Central to generate item recommendations for sales orders. By using sales line descriptions, the AI provides a list of relevant items, facilitating user actions. It emphasizes that AI can play a supportive role rather than providing complete solutions.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/06/10/implementing-a-multi-step-process-for-ai-recommendations-in-business-central/
8 months ago
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Friday already! I'm back with our BC AL Journey Series, this time working with JSON data. JSON is critical to working with data integration and communicating with AI/Copilot systems. JSON is the cornerstone of system-to-system communication, and this is a simple example. Have a great weekend!
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How to Work with JSON in Business Central’s AL Code
This content discusses the use of JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) for handling data communication in Business Central, emphasizing its advantages over XML. It explains JSON's fundamental elements—Values, Objects, and Arrays—and provides examples for reading and writing JSON datasets with AL code, highlighting the import/export process for Pet Owner and Pet records.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/06/06/how-to-work-with-json-in-business-centrals-al-code/
8 months ago
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Greeting everyone! It's Friday and I have a treat this week. Previously I posted about creating a simple Copilot for Address Cleanup. This week we create a new Copilot and incorporate Business Central data into the system to create a custom output based on BC data! Enjoy and have a great weekend.
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Creating Data Driven Text with AI in Business Central
The post discusses advancing the Copilot integration in Business Central by generating personalized reminder texts for overdue balances using GPT. It outlines the need to enrich the user prompt with customer data to create effective reminders, specifying changes to the code and the approach to enhance user interaction.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/05/30/creating-data-driven-text-with-ai-in-business-central/
8 months ago
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Thank you to everyone at DynamicsCon. I had a great time, learned new things, and enjoyed the company of amazing people. If you weren't able to attend, here is a quick wrap-up and link to my presentation content. It was a great time and I'm looking forward to the next DUG event.
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Experience at DynamicsCon 2025: Friends, Fun, and Learning
The session on Business Central Performance Management was well-attended, featuring engaging Dad jokes and valuable insights. Presentations included topics on Power Pages, sales pricing, and AI in development. The event fostered networking, with attendees enjoying group outings and personal moments, including the author's daughter participating. Appreciation was expressed for the organizers' efforts.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/05/19/experience-at-dynamicscon-2025-friends-fun-and-learning/
8 months ago
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Happy Friday everyone! Next week is DynamicsCon 2025! I hope to see many of you there, find me, I have stickers! Short posts this week and next, but then a new multipart series. Have a great weekend, and for those who are traveling, travel safe!
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Exploring Dynamics User Groups at DynamicsCon 2025
DynamicsCon 2025 will be held next week in Chicago. The author will present "Business Central Performance Management" at the conference. They emphasize the community's spirit among competitors who share knowledge and experiences in Dynamics products. Networking opportunities exist, including local DUG meetups for users and partners. Stickers will be available at the event.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/05/09/exploring-dynamics-user-groups-at-dynamicscon-2025/
9 months ago
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Did you know that the Business Central Page Designer works with Visual Studio Code? Well it does, you can edit your page/page extension and have those changes automatically added to your VS Code Extension! Here is a quick walk-through of how to use that feature. Have a great weekend!
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Effortless Layout Editing in Business Central
The post discusses improving layout design using Visual Studio Code and Business Central, outlining the steps to create a Page Extension and Table Extension for customizing the Customer Card. By activating Designer Mode, users can drag and drop fields, edit properties, and collaborate effectively with end users, enhancing the layout process.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/05/02/effortless-layout-editing-in-business-central/
9 months ago
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With the release of Business Central 2025 Wave 1 we have the new ToText() Method. I was curious what it looked like on the screen for each variable type. I created a BC Card and tested it out, so you don't have too. There were some interesting results, check them out! As always, have a great day!
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Understanding ToText() in Business Central 2025
Business Central 2025 Wave 1 introduces the ToText() method for various data types, providing a straightforward way to format values for display without specific formatting options. Outputs are demonstrated in a Card Page with aligned fields for each type, maintaining standard formatting and delivering interesting results for numbers, dates, and other data types.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/04/25/understanding-totext-in-business-central-2025/
9 months ago
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This week we are creating our first Copilot based process in Business Central. We are walking through the entire process from Azure Setup to testing our first AI prompts in Business Central. This is a simple example, with a lot of the foundations for more complex work later. Have fun (I did)!
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Integrating AI in Business Central: A Step-by-Step Guide
The post discusses integrating AI into Business Central, focusing on a use case for updating customer addresses from plain text. It outlines necessary implementations, including Azure AI resources, isolated storage for secure data handling, and code units for functionality. Users will create prompts and manage settings to facilitate address generation through AI.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/04/18/integrating-ai-in-business-central-a-step-by-step-guide/
9 months ago
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A short post this week. I'm getting ready for Directions next week! This one is important to me, and we discuss color blindness and reporting. Take a look and let me know if you have any questions.
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Color Blind Awareness in Design
This week I would like to cover a personal topic and something that I don't think enough people pay attention to in their design work. The use of color in reporting. I, like 8% of all men and 4.5% of all women, am color blind. Deuteranomaly specifically. Story Time! I was once asked to create a report for a client. They specified the colors they wanted in the vague color names.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/04/04/color-blind-awareness-in-design/
10 months ago
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Happy Friday. Here is an update to a previous post about Continuous Integration testing with GitHub and AL-Go. There is now support for Page Scripts as a part of your testing and validation. I love how technology changes and advances and I get to correct myself. :-)
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Update: AL-Go Testing with Page Scripting
This update highlights the integration of Page Scripts into testing routines with AL-Go in GitHub. Users are guided to create a "PageScripts" folder in their AL-Go structure, where they can place recording files. Additionally, the Settings file should include an array of test file specifications for proper configuration.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/03/28/update-al-go-testing-with-page-scripting/
10 months ago
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Happy Friday! This week we conclude our exploration into Table and Page triggers! I hope you have enjoyed review these triggers and I hope it helps seeing them all running in a simplified use case. I know it has helped me see some ways I can improve performance of my tables and pages.
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Key Page Field Triggers for Business Central Users
BC AL Journey #24 In BC AL Journey #23 we completed our dive into AL Page Triggers. We also took a look at Page Field Triggers, which we will complete here. This was a continuation of the BC AL Journey #10 where we introduced triggers. While Page Triggers focus on events related to the entire page object, the Page Field Triggers work on a single field.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/03/21/key-page-field-triggers-for-business-central-users/
10 months ago
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It is BC AL Journey Friday! This week we are finishing the Page Triggers we have been exploring for the past few weeks. These last triggers explore turning any field into a Lookup and managing the record selection user experience. Thanks for joining me on my 50th post! I appreciate all the support.
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Essential Triggers for Page Management in AL Programming – Part 3
BC AL Journey #23 continues exploring AL triggers, focusing on lesser-used Page triggers and Page Field triggers. It demonstrates user interaction through a lookup field, explaining how triggers like OnQueryClosePage and OnLookup validate selections. The session emphasizes enhancing user experience in Business Central through effective trigger management, with future discussions planned on Page Field Triggers.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/03/14/essential-triggers-for-page-management-in-al-programming-part-3/
10 months ago
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It is Friday, you know what that means! Another step on the BC AL Journey Series. This is part 2 of a dive into Page triggers. Even if you are familiar with page triggers, I learned something new about the refresh events of pages in the background of the focused page.
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Essential Triggers for Page Management in AL Programming – Part 2
In BC AL Journey #22, the focus shifts to essential record event-based Page triggers related to actions like new, insert, modify, and delete. The importance of data validation at the table level for data integrity is emphasized. Practical scenarios illustrate how triggers guide user data entry and validation while considering background page interactions.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/03/07/essential-triggers-for-page-management-in-al-programming-part-2/
11 months ago
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I am thrilled, and humbled, to share that I have been awarded a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional Award in Business Central. I want to thank everyone who has helped and supported. This is such an amazing community; I am so glad I have the opportunity to contribute to it.
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Grateful for the Microsoft MVP Recognition in Business Central
The author expresses gratitude for receiving a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional Award in Business Central. They highlight their journey from the Test and Measurement software world to Business Central, acknowledging the support from the community and Microsoft MVPs. Their aim is to give back and help others in their development journey, recognizing ongoing growth and learning.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/03/03/grateful-for-the-microsoft-mvp-recognition-in-business-central/
11 months ago
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Happy Friday! This week we are working our way through the Page triggers. There are quite a few of them, this is part 1. I had a good time diving into the page loading triggers and I hope you enjoy the post. Record handling triggers for next week! Thanks for reading!
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Essential Triggers for Page Management in AL Programming – Part 1
In BC AL Journey #21, the focus is on Page triggers, specifically OnInit and OnOpenPage, which occur during page loading. These triggers set up necessary variables and configure the page's field visibility. The lesson also discusses OnAfterGetRecord and OnAfterGetCurrRecord, which enable data validation and processing, and sets the stage for future explorations of record handling triggers.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/02/28/essential-triggers-for-page-management-in-al-programming-part-1/
11 months ago
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Happy Friday! This week the BC AL Journey series takes a look at Table Field Triggers. These triggers are super powerful for data management. This is a short lesson this week, Avowed dropped on XBOX Game Pass and I'm a nerd.
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Essential Triggers for Table Field Management in ALÂ Programming
The BC AL Journey #20 elaborates on Table Field triggers in AL, specifically OnValidate and OnLookup. These triggers are vital for maintaining data integrity during updates at the field level. OnValidate enables immediate data validation, while OnLookup customizes record lookups. Both ensure efficient user interaction and data management in Business Central.
http://aardvarklabs.blog/2025/02/21/essential-triggers-for-table-field-management-in-al-programming/
11 months ago
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