Feature Builder: Multiple Projects with References and Wizard

Question

Hi,

I am very new to Feature Builder, just downloaded it :)

I would like to know how can I perform the following:

1. Unfold multiple projects at solution creation i.e. Data, Business and UI.
2. Automatically Add references between those projects i.e. Add Data as a Reference to Business
3. Launch a custom Winform from the Data project that will create all the Data Access Component files i.e. .cs files.

 

Thank You :)

Hugs,

Serena

Answer 1

What you need to do to achieve #1 and #2 is to create a multi-project template.

You can find information about that here: http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms185308.aspx

Not sure what you mean by question 3.  If you want to add a wizard that can be used to create, for example, an entity, you could add a VSLaunchPoint (using the commands designer) and bind it (also using the designer) to a command that you write that displays the dialog and then generates the code.

You can find an example of how to do that in the Starter Pack + Tools scenario template.

Answer 2

Hi Michael,

Thanks for the pointers to item 1 and 2. I managed to got it working.

As for item 3, I would like to launch a custom form (i.e. a wizard) when the user right clicks on specific project i.e. When they right-click on Data project, I want a "Add New Data Access Class" to be available. When they click on it, it launches the form, fill in the details and I will generate the the code file into their project.

Makes sense?

Answer 3

Michael,

Can you respond to Firedancer's follow-up question? Thanks!

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Esther Fan | Visual Studio, Content Lead | If a post answers your question, please click "Mark As Answer" on that post and mark as Helpful. Thanks!

Answer 4

Yes, that's what I mean in the previous reply.  You add the menu item (VS Launch Point), you add your own command to show the dialog and in the code that launches the dialog then you write the code that adds the resulting generated code either using T4, an item template or just manually using DTE method.

Again, create a solution using the Starter Pack + Tools scenario template and look at the menu/dialog setup there.

Answer 5

Hi Michael,

Thanks for your tips.

I am actually exploring the possibility of migrating my tool, Layered Architecture Solution Guidance, from GAX to Feature Builder. I have tested feature builder to unfold the project templates but I am still trying to figure out how to integrate it with the custom-developed code generators.

I will explore feature builder further.

Thanks

Hugs,
Serena