Tuesday, May 20, 2025

Components & Their Usages in Dynamics 365 CRM

 

Key Components & Their Usages in Dynamics 365 CRM

ComponentUsage / Purpose
Entities / TablesCore data structure (e.g., Account, Contact, Lead, Opportunity); stores business data.
FormsUI for users to interact with data; customizable per role and device.
ViewsDefine how lists of records are displayed; used in grids, lookups, dashboards.
DashboardsVisual insights using charts, KPIs, and data views; used for user-specific reporting.
Business Process FlowsGuide users through standardized business stages (e.g., sales or case resolution).
Business RulesNo-code logic to show/hide fields, set default values, enforce validation.
Workflows (Classic)Legacy process automation for background tasks like email notifications.
Power Automate (Flows)Modern, cloud-based automation for tasks, approvals, and integrations.
PluginsCustom server-side logic triggered by platform events (e.g., create/update/delete).
Custom Workflow ActivitiesCustom C# logic used in classic workflows for reusable business operations.
JavaScript (Client Scripts)Runs on forms for real-time validation or dynamic field control.
Security RolesControl user access at entity, field, and record levels.
Teams / Business UnitsUsed for structuring user access and data ownership.
SolutionsPackage and deploy customizations across environments (managed/unmanaged).
Power PagesExternal-facing portals for customers or partners to interact with CRM data.
DataverseThe underlying data platform used to store, secure, and manage data.
Model-driven AppsCustomized UI apps built using Dataverse tables and views for specific roles.
Web ResourcesStore HTML, JS, CSS, images used in forms and custom interfaces.
Audit HistoryTracks changes at field level for compliance and traceability.
Field-Level SecurityRestricts visibility of sensitive data to specific users/roles.
AI Features / CopilotOffers recommendations, automation, and insights based on business data.
Power BI IntegrationAdvanced reporting and dashboarding with CRM data via live or scheduled refresh.
Mobile App SupportAccess CRM data and functionality via official Dynamics 365 mobile apps.