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Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 New Features and Fixes
Lasernet for Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations
Release version: 7.1
Release date: 17th February 2025
Introduction
This page describes the new features, fixes, and enhancements in Lasernet FO Connector 7.1.
The following documentation is available:
New Features – Lasernet FO Connector 7.1
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 is released for Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations versions 10.0.41 (PU65), 10.0.42 (PU66), and 10.0.43 (PU67).
The same source code is used across all versions.
This is aimed to be a quality update, provided through the following new features, fixes, and enhancements in Lasernet FO Connector 7.1.
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 introduces new licensing, improvement options for working with the Internal Azure Storage managed by FinOps, and optimized operations for various storage options.
Azure Storage
Lasernet FO Connector supports both the Internal Azure Storage managed by FinOps and External Azure Storage options managed by partners or customers.
Internal Azure Storage (FinOps)
Lasernet uses a connection string to access Azure Storage. Microsoft plans to deprecate the use of this connection string when using the Internal Azure Storage managed by FinOps.
Only the use of this connection string for the Internal Azure Storage managed by FinOps will be deprecated. Therefore, it will still be possible to use a connection string for an External Azure Storage option.
The following are the options provided by Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 for supporting Azure Storage:
Use of Temporary Azure Storage both for communication between Lasernet FO Connector (FinOps) and Lasernet, and for archiving purposes.
Use of Temporary Azure Storage for communication between Lasernet FO Connector (FinOps) and Lasernet, and an External Azure Storage option for archiving (attachments for Document handling are still saved within the Internal Azure Storage managed by FinOps).
Use of an External Azure Storage option, where all documents are migrated.
Use of a user-delegated SAS for the connection between Lasernet FO Connector (FinOps) and Lasernet. This SAS will be used for communication and/or archiving purposes. For more details, consult this article and this article.
Temporary Azure Storage
A new option called Temporary External Storage has been introduced with Lasernet FO Connector 7.1.
This new Temporary Azure Storage can be used to communicate between Lasernet FO Connector (FinOps) and Lasernet. It also ensures that documents can be saved as attachments (Document handling within Lasernet FO Connector).
Afterward, a batch job will migrate documents from the Temporary Azure Storage into the Internal Azure Storage, which is managed by FinOps.
The advantage of using this approach is documents used for Document handling as attachments, which always use the Internal Azure Storage, can still be saved back into FinOps.
All Review functionalities are supported by the temporary storage.
The option to specify Temporary External Storage is located in Lasernet > Setup > Administration > Lasernet servers.
The temporary connection is created in Lasernet > Setup > Administration > Connection.
Azure storage is the default setting within the Lasernet configuration. It is, therefore, required to use the Azure Storage Connection string if the default configuration is used for Lasernet.
It is possible to override the connection name in Lasernet by specifying the required connection name within the Lasernet Azure command name to reports storage and then creating a connection with the same name in Lasernet.
Use the same Connection string in Lasernet as the one used within Lasernet FO Connector (either the one used for the Temporary Storage or the one used for D365FO connection to reports storage).
No additional adjustments are required in Lasernet when using the default/demo configuration provided by Formpipe.
If you do not receive a response from Lasernet when creating a preview or validating the connection from Lasernet FO Connector to the Lasernet server, use the Lasernet Monitor.
If an error message such as the following appears within the Lasernet Monitor, use the Find all option:
Search “connection”:
Ensure the DatabaseConnection shown actually exists and has the same connection string as the one used within Lasernet FO Connector.
Batch Job for Synchronization of the Azure Storage
The batch jobs used to migrate documents from the External Azure Storage to the Internal Azure Storage managed by FinOps are located in Lasernet > Setup > Administration > Temporary storage synchronization.
A prompt such as the following appears if a batch job has not already started, and it is possible to specify whether files should be overwritten, the number of threads, and the recurrence.
The default recurrence is every minute, but it is possible to adjust this within the Batch job.
In the Pending files section, it is possible to see what has been queued within the Temporary Azure Storage and, therefore, is ready to be processed:
The prefix “document” indicates the file is a document that should be used for Document handling as an attachment and, therefore, should be saved within the Internal Azure Storage managed by FinOps.
Document Handling - Saving Documents from Lasernet back into FinOps
It is possible to select attachments From archive instead of From attachments. For example, invoices can be added as attachments when sending customer account statements.
One reason for using the Azure Storage managed by FinOps is to ensure attachments can be picked up from Document handling in FinOps.
However, this can often be replaced by selecting From archive.
Examples:
Temporary Azure Storage and Internal Azure storage managed by FinOps
This approach uses the Temporary Azure Storage to communicate between Lasernet FO Connector and Lasernet, as well as for archiving purposes.
Create a Connection string and select TempStorage.
Ensure the connection Azure Storage in Lasernet uses the same Connection string as the one specified within the TempStorage.
This process also requires the batch job located in Lasernet > Setup > Administration > Temporary storage synchronization to be scheduled.
This batch job ensures reports are migrated from the External Azure Storage to the Internal Azure Storage managed by FinOps. It also ensures reports are used as attachments if Document handling is used within Lasernet FO Connector.
Create a new batch job in case no batch tasks are shown in the grid/list:
Temporary Azure Storage for communication, External Azure Storage for archiving, and Internal Azure Storage managed by FinOps for Document handling
Ensure Azure Storage in Lasernet uses the same Connection string as the one specified in D365FO connection to reports storage when the Lasernet Azure command name to reports field is empty.
Ensure a connection Name with the same Connection string as the one specified in Lasernet Azure command name to reports storage exists in Lasernet, if the field Lasernet Azure command name to reports storage contains a value.
The final destination is shown for the entries within the Lasernet Archive, while the Preview and Download options for the XML/PDF files will work both before and after the batch job for the synchronization has been executed.
External Azure Storage
All storage operations for Azure are redesigned (optimized) in Lasernet FO Connector 7.1.
This is to improve functionality, readability, and performance. Storage operations maintain Lasernet archives and files stored in the storage controlled by Lasernet Connector.
Storage operations are executed in parallel threads in batch mode. The Review form enables users to see the progress of the storage operations, with an Auto-refresh option available and a log per file/record.
Process archive lifespan – Cleans up Lasernet archived data by Lifespan setup.
Copy archives - Run for Lasernet log (Archive) Query data. Allows copying archived files to another storage and updating archive records.
Copy files - Run only for files in storage. Allows copying files by name/date criteria to the storage but does not update Lasernet Archive records.
Move archives - Run for Lasernet log (Archive) Query data. Allows moving specific archives to another storage option.
Move files - Run only for files in storage. Allows moving files by name/date criteria to the storage but does not update Lasernet Archive records.
Cleanup archives - Run for Lasernet log (Archive) Query data. Allows deleting specific archives that contain files or archives that do not contain files.
Cleanup files - Run only for files in storage. Allows cleaning up files by name/date criteria in the storage or only files that do not have an Archive record (checking cross-company).
Storage operations can be started in “Pre-calculation” mode via the option Scan only, which allows users to see what files or records will be updated by the operation without any updates actually taking place.
Failed storage operations can be re-rerun on the failed files or records.
A file-based operation can use a Regular expression File name filter as a parameter.
A storage operation can be marked to create a text file log in the storage.
The provided history cleanup job deletes unneeded historical data.
Storage operations can be executed and maintained from the Lasernet connection or the Lasernet storage browser.
Performance Using Storage Operations
Performance across all storage operations for the Azure Storage has been optimized to facilitate the transition of customers who wish to migrate documents from the Internal Azure Storage managed by FinOps to an External Azure Storage managed by the customers themselves.
Performance is optimized by introducing the same Top-Picking framework and 'Overview' as within the Test & Performance Suite, including a staging table. Introducing a staging table also ensures stability when processing many records.
Lasernet Professional
Lasernet Essentials aims to offer a user experience that is largely keyboard-free, with most functions accessible through mouse navigation alone.
This benefits the end-user and enhances software demonstrations.
Lasernet Essentials also adopts a streamlined approach, promoting adherence to best practices by offering fewer options while also ensuring that the available choices are well-considered and effective.
The Lasernet Professional edition of Lasernet FO Connector offers similar benefits concerning simplifications and enhancements. Users have the option to transition from Lasernet Essentials to Lasernet Professional and continue using the same methods/features they are accustomed to.
You have the option to transition from Lasernet Professional to Lasernet Enterprise in relation to the Form designs.
This section of the Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 New Features is divided into the following sub-sections:
The first sub-section describes the different options within the top half of the Lasernet Professional workspace.
The second sub-section outlines the lower half of the workspace and highlights the features displayed in a report Preview.
The third sub-section explores the Links FastTab.
The fourth sub-section is devoted to the Auto Update feature.
Workspace – Top Half
Access to the Lasernet Essentials workspace is restricted to users with the roles of Lasernet Administrator or System Administrator, similar to report previewing functions. The difference in logo will indicate whether Lasernet Essentials or Lasernet Professional is being used.
Lasernet Essentials is used when no license code/key has been entered, while Lasernet Professional requires a valid license code/key.
Functionality within Lasernet Essentials is accessible via the workspace or when previewing a report.
The following is the Lasernet Essentials’ logo:
Lasernet is not included within the Modules list when using Lasernet Essentials or Lasernet Professional.
Entering a valid license code activates the Advanced version and gives access to all functionality via the list or the workspace.
The Lasernet workspace is streamlined to provide core output management functions.
Configuring a new report within Lasernet Professional is a straightforward process, and it can be done from within the workspace by clicking New report or Load from catalog.
Alternatively, it can also be achieved when running a report by using the Setup for Lasernet button.
New Report
SSRS report name
The field SSRS report name is populated by default with the name of the report you have selected from the Reports FastTab. You can see the SalesConfirmReplacement report is highlighted in light blue, which means it has been previously selected. Use the dropdown to pick any SSRS report you wish to create.
Design name
The Design name dropdown allows you to choose the report design you are going to employ in the legal entity you are currently using. Customer-facing reports have different localization designs honoring the specific legislation. The following is an example for the SalesInvoice.
Create replacement
By toggling the Create replacement button to Yes, you will have full control over the data and design of the report by using Lasernet’s powerful Query wizard and Form Editor.
The Create replacement option uses the default naming convention for the Lasernet replacement report, which adds the suffix “Replacement” to the SSRS report name.
Tables used in the SSRS report, including TMP (temporary) tables, will be added to the Query wizard.
Fields used in the SSRS report will also be added to the Query.
Note
The Lasernet Report Replacement functionality is an advanced feature of Lasernet FO Connector. A Lasernet report replacement can be used to replace an SSRS report generated from Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations.
An SSRS data provider normally populates TMP tables with data required for an SSRS report when the report is generated. A Lasernet report replacement can use the data from the TMP tables to create an XML file directly within Finance and Operation. The Lasernet Developer can then use the data from the XML file to create professional-looking documents.
Since all data used by SSRS reports is generated within Finance and Operations, replacement reports can reuse all the data sources for execution.
It is also possible to enhance the data in the Lasernet replacement report by joining additional tables to the TMP tables to retrieve data that is not available with the standard SSRS report. This can be done from the front end and requires no customizations in Finance and Operations.
Note
If you are new to the Lasernet Report Replacement functionality, read about event handlers here.
Let SSRS render PDF
When the Let SSRS render PDF button is toggled to No, you will have to use Lasernet Form Editor to create the document's layout.
When the Let SSRS render PDF button is toggled to Yes, you will have to use the current SSRS report design, exactly as it is.
Note
The Lasernet function Let SSRS render PDF is used to render SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) reports as PDF files. This function leverages the capabilities of SSRS to generate reports in a PDF format, which can then be used as is for Lasernet to distribute, printing, or archiving.
To use this function, you typically need to configure SSRS to render the report and then save it as a PDF file. Lasernet has done this programmatically using the SSRS API or through the SSRS web interface. The process involves specifying the report parameters, rendering the report, and then saving the output as a PDF file.
New report name
The Create replacement option uses the default naming convention for the Lasernet replacement report, which adds the suffix “Replacement” to the SSRS report name. However, you are free to change this name to your liking.
Create
By clicking Create, your newly created report is added to the report list.
Create and open
Clicking Create and open means you are ready to work with the report and would like the report and wizard to open so you can add fields to your report.
Cancel
When clicking Cancel, the whole process will be halted, and no new report will be created.
Load from Catalog
The Load from catalog feature enables the configuration (import) of several reports in the same run.
Mark both versions of the report - SSRS and Replacement report - and click Load.
The report is now added to your Reports FastTab and ready for use.
Overwrite
The following prompt is displayed if a report already exists:
Command | Description |
---|---|
Yes | Overwrite report |
Yes to all | Overwrite multiple reports |
No | Do not overwrite report |
No to all | Do not overwrite multiple reports |
Cancel | Do not overwrite any report(s) |
Configure report from Journal
Additionally, you can set up aLasernet report within any of the standard journals in Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations.
Begin by selecting a standard destination for previewing the report.
The user must have either the role System Administrator or Lasernet Administrator.
Setup for Lasernet
Use the Setup for Lasernet option after previewing report to standard screen (preview of standard SSRS report).
A refresh is needed when the report is set up from a journal but not if it is configured through a printer dialog, such as when posting packing slips or invoices.
The following dropdown menu is shown after the session has been refreshed, with the Lasernet destinations:
Open Designer
The Open designer tile opens the Lasernet Form Editor, where it is possible to adjust the design for the selected report.
Users can open the Form Editor from either a report’s Preview or within the workspace.
The tile’s name will change to Designer Disabled if no entry is found for the report within the Lasernet Archive. The system will inform you about this when the mouse pointer is positioned over the tile.
Designer Disabled is also shown if the report is not using an Embedded design, such as in a hybrid setup where some reports are using the Embedded engine and others are using a Lasernet Server (Enterprise version).
Similarly, a message appears within the report’s Preview if Enable embedded designs is disabled and if no single entry exists within the Archive.
When the Lasernet Form Editor is opened from a report’s Preview or from the workspace, the report name will be shown in the top bar of the Form Editor.
Run the report from its original location if no data is shown when opening the designer. Generating the report from its initial location will help ensure that data is available the next time the designer is accessed from the workspace.
Setup Wizard
The Setup wizard provides guidance for configuring Lasernet.
A checkmark in the Complete column indicates that a step has been completed. It is, however, possible to use the Reset button to remove all checkmars and start over.
Download and install Lasernet report designer
This step contains a link to the Lasernet report designer installation package. Lasernet report designer will allow you to design the report layout. Download the package and install the software.
Load basic settings
This step will load the default basic settings from the Formpipe Azure Storage. These basic settings include parameters, connections to Formpipe Azure Storage, and configuration settings allowing report execution and printout.
Download and install Cloud Print Connector
This step contains a link to the Cloud Print Connector installation package. Cloud Print Connector is installed on a local computer and waits for print jobs from Dynamics 365. When a report is printed from Dynamics 365, the printout file is sent to your local computer, and Cloud Print Connector will redirect it to the chosen printer on your network. Download the package and install the software.
Download and install Cloud Print Connector configuration
Cloud Print Connector configuration is a configuration file for Cloud Print Connector. It contains the necessary information to keep the connection with Dynamics 365 active. Download this file and double-click i. The previously installed Could Print Connector software will load and configure it.
Fetch local printer names via Cloud Print Connector
Fetching printers will instruct the previously configured Cloud Print Connector to prepare the list of your locally available printers and load this list to Dynamics 365.
Assign Lasernet users
Assign users to the Lasernet User security role. This role only provides access to the Lasernet destinations within the printer dialog. If the reports are not configured for Lasernet, a user of this role has access to the standard destinations (SSRS).
The following prompts appear if basic settings are already in place:
Settings
The Settings tile opens the Lasernet parameters page, which contains the following options:
General FastTab
In this FastTab, you can prevent the Edit dropdown option from appearing on a report’s Preview by toggling the Disable report preview edit features button to Yes.
Normally, the Edit dropdown is shown in a report’s Preview if the user has the role of either System Administrator or Lasernet Administrator.
The Disable report preview edit features option will hide the Edit button and, therefore, all features located within this dropdown.
Note
While the Edit button can be disabled, the Go to Report button is always available in a report Preview and is used to show the report within the workspace.
The Clear Lasernet cache function is located within the General FastTab and removes stored information about tables and fields within the environment. It should be used whenever new tables or fields are added.
Using Clear Lasernet cache will not interrupt any user sessions.
Performance FastTab
This FastTab enables users to choose settings for Performance optimization.
Email FastTab
This FastTab enables the user to set up the Email body editor type.
License terms FastTab
This FastTab contains information about the license type.
After entering a License code, click Save to ensure Lasernet is shown within the Modules list if a valid License code is provided.
Clicking Save will also ensure Lasernet is removed from the Modules list if no valid License code is entered.
Catalog FastTab
The Connection string found in the Catalog FastTab includes an optional link for loading basic settings and configuring reports. This is useful for sharing environment settings and report configurations.
Version FastTab
The Version FastTab contains details regarding the environment and installed software versions.
To enable the Professional edition, input a valid License code in the License terms FastTab and click Save. This will refresh the session.
Lasernet will appear within the Modules list and the main menu once a valid License code for Lasernet Advanced/Enterprise has been provided.
Install/Upgrade tasks FastTab
In this FastTab, it is possible to view the batch job that Lasernet automatically schedules whenever it detects a version change. This batch job is called.
Workspace – Lower Half
List/Thumbnails
Reports within the workspace can be displayed either as a list or as thumbnails.
In the following image, the reports are shown as thumbnails, but you can switch to a list view using the List feature:
And vice-versa:
The List view enables multi-selection, enabling users to manage multiple reports at once.
Delete
The Delete button is used to delete the selected report(s). A warning appears before the operation is completed.
Deactivate
The Deactivate button is used to deactivate any active report(s).
Edit
The following section describes the options available within the Edit dropdown menu, which is available in both the Preview and the workspace.
The Edit dropdown menu can be disabled from the Lasernet parameters page.
Add field
The Add field option opens a dialog in which you must first select the required table and then the field.
Query wizard
Selecting Query wizard will open a wizard for the Query, where you can add the required tables and fields.
You can also sort the fields and add the necessary ranges.
The Query wizard is simplified in Lasernet Professional and contains the following steps (click Next to continue):
Tables
It is possible to link related tables or establish relationships between them by clicking Add related tables.
Language labels can be defined at the data sources level, incorporating existing language texts for the report.
Click +New to add a new label or translation.
Then, click the Text ID dropdown.
Select fields
After selecting the required fields, it is possible to move them Up and Down within the Query wizard.
Sort fields
Range
Create report
Images
The Image gallery within Lasernet Professional has been enhanced with some visual improvements. The aim is to increase intuitiveness and to ensure all components function correctly within the existing Lasernet FO Connector.
The Image gallery can be used in Lasernet Essentials, Professional, Advanced, and Enterprise, as the same engine is used in the back end.
Images can be added from the workspace as well as through a report’s Preview.
Only users with Lasernet Administrator or System Administrator roles can add images via Preview and the workspace. Users lacking these roles will not be able to view any of the extra options.
Attachments
It is possible to configure attachments directly from the Attachment form in standard Dynamics 365 FO or by using the Attachments option within a report’s Preview or the workspace.
The Attachments feature can be used to add directly to the report the tables for which the attachment is needed and to define Restriction, Type, and Document type.
Attachments can also be configured directly and automatically from the Attachment form.
The following screen appears:
Choose the required report and ensure the table used for the attachment is included in the report from the Query wizard. Then click OK.
The configured settings will be displayed in the following form:
The following message appears if no additional report can be configured for the attachment(s), such as if all reports that include the required table have already been configured.
Pay attention to the source (table) mentioned in the message. The Query wizard requires this for the report to be part of the lookup.
Destinations
The Destinations option is only available from the workspace and not from the reports’ Preview. It provides the option to configure some predefined destinations for the report.
Destinations can be defined for Printer, Email, and Screen.
Afterward, the predefined destinations are used via the Lasernet Predefined option within the printer dialog. It is also possible to define a Fallback destination, which is used if no destinations are found via the predefined destinations.
Both Lasernet and standard destinations are shown if a user has one of the following roles:
System Administrator
Lasernet Administrator
Lasernet Advanced User
Destinations configured for Lasernet are only shown if a user has the Lasernet User role.
Note
To learn more about the Destinations feature, read this guide.
Resend
The Resend feature is useful for regenerating an output, such as if additional data has been added. It always uses the single entry for the report within the Lasernet Archive as its source.
Resending a report will ensure additional tables, fields, images, and attachments are added even when the report’s Preview is already open or when working within the workspace.
Resend from the workspace:
Resend from the report’s Preview:
The option to resend is not available for Proforma reports or within the workspace if no single entry for the report exists within the Lasernet Archive.
Additionally, the Print option is disabled for Proforma reports. This feature is available only for non-proforma versions.
All Edit options, apart from Destinations, are available in both the report’s Preview and the workspace (Destinations are only accessible from the workspace within the Edit dropdown).
You can access these options from the Preview unless they have been disabled within the Lasernet parameters page.
Backup
Export
When exporting a report, the required information in Dynamics as well as the report design(s) are included in the export.
Mark both the original SSRS report and the replacement report to be included in the export.
The export of a single report will include the Report name, Company, User, Current Date & Time: Backup_SalesPackingSlipReplacement_usmf_Kim.Agerholm_09-03-2024_11-53-49.zip
Whereas exports of multiple reports will not include the Report name: Backup_usmf_Kim.Agerholm_09-03-2024_11-58-8.zip
Import
To import a report, select the file from your machine and then re-select the required file with the configuration that needs to be imported. The file extension is always .zip, and it is possible to import either a single report or multiple reports.
Deactivating one of the other reports will allow the report to be activated.
Archive
Note
Lasernet's archiving capabilities are integrated with Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations, providing a seamless experience for users. This integration helps in maintaining compliance with record-keeping requirements and facilitates easy access to archived documents.
The Lasernet Archive is designed to store and retrieve documents generated by Lasernet. This function ensures that all documents, such as invoices, statements, labels, and letters, are securely archived and easily accessible for future reference. The archive is information-rich, displaying details such as when, to whom, and how the document was sent. It also enables instant multi-resend functionality, allowing you to resend an exact copy of the document as it was originally created.
After clicking the Archive button, you are taken to the Lasernet Archive section of the report you have selected.
In this scenario, the report is the SalesConfirmationReplacement:
Note
To learn more about the Lasernet Archive, read this guide.
To learn more about the Resend function in Archive, read this guide.
Links
At the bottom of the Lasernet Professional workspace is the Links FastTab, which contains four shortcuts to four frequently used pages.
Reports
Archive
Administration
Environments
Connections
Image gallery
Setup Parameters
Cloud Print Connector Setup
Parameters
User setup
Auto Update
When using Add field, Query wizard, Images, or Attachments, the system will present the following prompt if the selected report is not a Proforma without any Archive records.
Command | Description |
---|---|
Open designer after resend | Will automatically open the Lasernet Form Editor after the report has been regenerated. |
Do not tell me again | Will skip this prompt next time for this report. |
If a Proforma report is selected, the following warning will be shown:
Warning
For report changes to take affect, report data needs to be regenerated (resended). Automatic resend for this report is not possible, please re-run report manually, to get all new modifications to report.
Licensing
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 supports the following licensing levels:
Essentials
Professional
Advanced/Enterprise
The License code must be entered in Lasernet > Setup > Parameters. The Level and License type will indicate which version the License code is for:
Licensing information has been extended to include the Installed product version, Platform update name, and Platform build number.
Connection Type
A new Connection type has been introduced, which is advantageous because it makes it possible to use both the Embedded Lasernet engine with the included Form Editor and a Lasernet Server at the same time – a hybrid setup.
It is also possible to use another Azure Storage, SharePoint, Autoform DM, or Filesystem (OnPrem) for archiving purposes when using the Embedded Lasernet engine.
The following Connection type has been introduced to support the Embedded Lasernet engine:
Once created, the configured connection for the Embedded Lasernet engine is used within the Lasernet server.
It is sufficient to use Integrated (Embedded) for the Outgoing connection type, as the Azure Storage provided with standard Dynamics 365 FO will be used for PDF and/or XML files.
Bug Fixes and Enhancements - Lasernet FO Connector 7.1
444806@LAC365FO – Resend without force resend should not bundle different archives into one
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 supports the option to resend a report that was originally sent without Force rerun, which was not previously possible.
Storage operations have been redesigned to improve functionality, readability, and performance.
Read more about this here in the External Azure Storage section.
446386@LAC365FO – If a license code for Advanced/Enterprise is provided, a brand new report can be created in the workspace
The report creation process (SSRS, Query, Replacement, and class/CE reports) has been enhanced with a new dialog.
The Create and Create and open buttons will become available once either the New report name or SSRS report name fields have been filled.
446336@LAC365FO – Temporary Storage Synchronization
The Temporary Storage parameter has been introduced for the Lasernet server. This is used by the Lasernet server to place files that are required to be the internal Dynamics 365 FO storage. The Temporary storage synchronization job was introduced to set up and maintain a periodic batch job that migrates files from Temporary Storage to Dynamics 365 FO.
The review form allows users to track the progress of the storage operations, with an Auto refresh option available and a log per file/record.
Temporary storage synchronization is executed in parallel threads, in batch mode, using the same approach as other Lasernet storage operations.
The synchronization can be maintained from Lasernet > Setup > Administration > Temporary storage synchronization.
In previous versions, it was possible to add tables within the form ranges by using tables that had not even been selected.
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 does not allow this approach. A table added as part of the range should be replaced by a relation and a range/filter for the table/data source.
Similarly, within Form links and when adding a range.
446176@LAC365FO – The report’s latest state is not reflected in Print in batch
In previous versions, a Query’s changed property or added table was not always reflected in the report batch run.
This issue was caused by the caching of the table and the batch storing this cache across all processes. When the report was updated, the new version was not loaded in batch, which caused the differences.
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 selects the report directly instead of loading via the cached instance.
440045@LAC365FO – The Associated payment attachment does not work after upgrading to version 6.21 or when using a solution from another ISV
In previous versions, using the Associated payment caused an error when used in combination with another ISV.
A workaround has been introduced in Lasernet FO Connector 7.1.
Email Support
Lasernet Advanced supports various senders’ email addresses as long as a single domain is used. For example, one sender's email address is in company A (From: companyA@Formpipe.com), and another is in company B (From: companyB@Formpipe.com).
A Lasernet server can be added, and Lasernet Enterprise can be used in scenarios requiring multiple domains. Such as, company A (From: companyA@firstDomain) and company B (From: companyB@secondDomain)
The domain part of the email address is the portion that appears after the "@" symbol.
437278@LAC365FO – An issue with empty records was identified when using the context method LACExplodeTmp_ByInventTable() to explode a BOM
In previous versions, using the context method LACExplodeTmp_ByInventTable() provided out of the box with Lasernet FO Connector could, in some cases, produce an empty output.
This context method provides the option to explode a BOM (Bill Of Materials).
Using the context method LACExplodeTmp_ByInventTable():
Previous versions | Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 |
---|---|
Empty output: | Correct output: |
436151@LAC365FO – Issues with creating Predefined selections
In previous versions, when changing data sources/tables within the Predefined table selection, changes were not saved when using the Save button located in the Action pane.
The workaround was using Save within the Predefined table selection (lower grid).
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 solves this issue.
Predefined selection for the backup is located in Lasernet > Setup > Backup parameters > Setup Predefined Selections.
452698@LAC365FO – Demo mode has been removed from the Lasernet parameters page
Demo mode has been removed from Lasernet FO Connector 7.1.
This is to ensure better security and lower the number of configurations and potential issues.
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 supports a similar option by enabling the parsing of a Shared Access Signature (SAS/ SAS Token) via the Azure Service Bus Queue when Microsoft-managed environments (Service Fabric) are used.
Security is maintained at an exceptionally high level when using the option to pass a SAS/SAS Token.
452433@LAC365FO – An issue was identified regarding the inability to import Lasernet Form Objects from Lasernet Developer with a Keywords set
In previous versions, importing a Lasernet form was not possible if a Keywords set had been defined in the form:
Importing the form resulted in the inability to map the form design within Lasernet FO Connector.
The following warning appeared:
This has now been fixed.
451082@LAC365FO – The auto-complete feature in the Expression editor is not working correctly for Alert Links
In previous versions, the ranges’ auto-complete feature did not function as intended when used within Alert links.
In Lasernet FO Connector, it is possible to trigger a report from an Alert via the Alert links.
Alerts are useful for tracking events during the workday and for informing parties both inside and outside the organization.
It is possible to specify ranges for Alerts.
The auto-completion feature used to block lookups:
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 supports the auto-completion feature when Context is used as part of the Expression:
450638@LAC365FO – An error occurs when illegal characters are used within a field
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 will produce an error message if any illegal characters are used.
Illegal characters are often added from external systems, such as MS Teams, when copying information into FinOps.
Identifying those characters can often be a time-consuming task. This enhancement to detect illegal characters will help determine which fields contain them more quickly.
An error message will be displayed, indicating both the field containing the invalid character and the illegal character, such as the following, where the field is IdentificationNumber and the invalid character hexadecimal 0x003:
If this happens, locate and check the field.
Then, remove any illegal characters.
450315@LAC365FO – Licenses that fail due to user count limitations should not result in a downgraded level
In previous versions, using a license for too few users in Lasernet Enterprise used to launch Lasernet Essentials instead of enabling the Enterprise version and adding a 10-second pause.
In the following example, the license code was given to 60 Enterprise users, but 70 users were required:
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 maintains the Enterprise level active, even with insufficient users in the license code.
450221@LAC365FO – deliveryAddress() fields for WHSShipmentTable are removed from the table when Reset modification is set to Yes
In previous versions, methods added from a class method, such as deliveryAddress() in WHSShipmentTable, were removed when Reset modifications was enabled in the final step of the Query wizard:
Before finishing the Query wizard:
Upon completing the Query wizard and subsequently reopening it:
This issue has been fixed.
445001@LAC365FO – An option has been added to include/exclude Predefined destinations as part of Export/Import
The export of Predefined destinations is now included in Lasernet Essentials and is available when using Backup from the workspace in Lasernet Professional and Lasernet Advanced/Enterprise:
449655@LAC365FO – Imported Lasernet server (Active/Inactive) with connections pointing to other environments causes an error
In previous versions, importing a server setup into an environment with connections pointing to other environments that were not defined for the imported connections did not enable adjustments for the imported server setup.
A similar issue could arise when adding a new environment without adding connections using this environment/environment Id.
Lasernet FO Connector will keep generating warnings and errors, but it enables editing and saving the record.
448468@LAC365FO – Using the Sum Aggregate function in conjunction with an Expression that uses a custom field results in NaN output
In certain situations, using a Sum Aggregate function resulted in a NaN output. This issue occurred when the Type of the used field was changed from String to Real.
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 ensures that fields designated as numbers are correctly treated as numbers within the aggregation process.
445574@LAC365FO – Mobile device - The value selected in the Print to field is not saved
In previous versions, when a report was not configured for Lasernet, it was not possible to specify the number of copies for a standard destination, resulting in an error.
This has now been fixed.
443619@LAC365FO – Warehouse Management app - The value selected in the Print to field is not saved
In previous versions, selecting a printer for a warehouse label specified for a worker would change the printer back to Default printer once work was completed within the warehouse app.
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 ensures the selected printer is maintained even when the work is completed.
The Lasernet printer Local Zebra is selected as default:
However, selecting another printer within the Warehousing app would reverse back to the Default printer ZEBRA once the work was completed.
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 ensures that any changes made to the Default printer are maintained once the work is completed.
The Default printer is specified either for the worker in Finops or within the Warehousing app.
Warehouse management > Setup > Worker:
Warehousing app:
412331@LAC365FO – Standardization of the CompanyId
Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations uses a mix of upper and lower case for the CompanyId (dataAreaId).
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 ensures that the output for the CompanyId (dataAreaId) is kept in lowercase for any newly created reports (XML).
This applies to the following situations:
When using Calculated.CompanyId() within the Structure/Elements:
When using CompanyId within the JobInfo section:
When using the Filemask (filepath) within Lasernet FO Connector:
453855@LAC365FO – An issue arises with the Email editor in 10.0.43
In previous versions, the following error occurred when using Finance and Operations 10.0.43 (Update67) and any earlier versions of Lasernet FO Connector:
The error occurred:
When opening a printer dialog for a report that was configured for Lasernet. No errors were detected when trying to open the printer dialog until the previous dialog was closed.
When accessing the Lasernet parameters page.
This issue has been fixed.
453803@LAC365FO – An error occurs when importing a report: "Could not load parameters from the compressed archive"
This issue has been resolved by using the Maximum setting for the quotas.
453650@LAC365FO – It is now possible to use range Expressions with the same Query data sources in the Query wizard
In Lasernet FO Connector 7.0, the use of tables for ranges in a Query through an Expression was restricted.
Optimal practice and best performance are achieved by using relations between tables, which reduce the number of Queries and, therefore, decrease the load on the SQL server.
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 enables the use of tables for a range through an Expression in the following circumstances:
The table used in the Expression is not part of the same Query branch.
When using a table from another Query branch, only the first record is used for the range.
It is possible to utilize any tables within an Expression for a range when employing a sub-query.
Examples
Permitted use of tables within an Expression for a specified range:
The data source CustInvoiceJour is part of the Query branch that has SalesInvoiceHeaderFooterTmp as its data source.
The data source TaxTrans is added at the root level and within its own Query branch:
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 enables the use of SalesInvoiceHeaderFooterTmp and CustInvoiceJour for the range specified in the Expression for TaxTrans.
The first record from CustInvoiceJour sets the ranges for TaxTrans.
Non-permitted use of tables within an Expression for a specified range:
It is not possible to use any table for the ranges if, for instance, the data source TaxTrans is part of the same Query branch as SalesInvoiceHeaderFooterTmp > CustInvoiceJour.
It is not possible to select the data sources SalesInvoiceHeaderFooterTmp and CustInvoiceJour as they are within the same Query branch (related tables).
Validation indicates whether a data source or table has been moved into the same Query branch. For instance, the data source TaxTrans has been moved into the same Query branch as the tables that were previously used within the Expression for the range.
A validation warning will be shown:
453119@LAC365FO – Access to Cloud Print Connector (CPC) Setup is enabled, which may be needed as a workaround for the Azure deprecation
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 enables access to Connections and Cloud Print Connector Setup from the Finance and Operations workspace.
This will be useful when Microsoft restricts access to Internal Azure storage, which is managed by FinOps/Microsoft, through a connection string.
Ensure Cloud Print Connector can be used with an External Azure storage.
Lasernet Essentials:
Lasernet Professional:
Lasernet Enterprise:
452678@LAC365FO – The warning issued when using AOT Query LACWHSPrintLabels for Warehouse labels has been removed
In previous versions, the AOT Query LACWHSPrintLabels (used when printing labels from the Warehousing app) issued a warning within the Query wizard, although everything functioned correctly.
This warning has been removed in Lasernet FO Connector 7.1.
448889@LAC365FO – An issue arises when trying to add Print buttons to certain forms, such as CustCollectionLetterJournal and CustCollectionLetterNote
In previous versions, it was not possible to dynamically add additional Print buttons to certain forms if their structure and design did not align with those used in journals, such as CustInvoice and Packing slip.
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 enables adding Print buttons if the report is configured for Lasernet and it uses Lasernet as the anchor for the button(s). This ensures the correct destination is used, and it optimizes the printing process by eliminating the need to adjust printer settings.
To add a Print button, navigate to Print buttons > Direct printout destinations.
In previous versions, Print buttons could not be added through Form adjustment unless the form's structure matched the standard structure used for journal forms.
Lasernet FO Connector 7.1 includes the option to adjust and add Print buttons to forms that do not have the same structure as the standard FinOps journal forms.
To do so, navigate to Print buttons > Common > Form adjustment.
Note
This requires the report to be configured for Lasernet.
Navigate to Print buttons > Common > Direct printout destinations and choose either Journal or Both in the Show button dropdown:
The form now shows the desired Print buttons:
You can also add Print buttons in the following configuration:
To do so, specify a Control name for the location where the Print buttons should be positioned:
452358@LAC365FO – An issue arises when trying to control the Review before sending function from code
In previous versions, controlling the Review before sending function using code was only possible if the feature was enabled for the report:
Code:
Following this approach, the Review before sending option appeared within the printer dialog for the report.
In Lasernet FO Connector 7.1, a class called LACDestinationSettingsManager_DispContext has been included to help preserve values throughout the printing process. This class enables users to specify which values should be "read-only" during the process and not re-initialized from the report.
449256@LAC365FO – A correlation has been established between the SELECTED REPORTS and SELECTED TABLES sections
In Lasernet FO Connector 7.1, clearing the Reports selection in the SELECTED TABLES of the Export Lasernet backup dialog removes any selected reports.
Selecting Reports selects all reports.
In previous versions, no established correlation existed between SELECTED REPORTS and SELECTED TABLES.
A similar approach is used with Predefined selection.
453802@LAC365FO – Images cannot be retrieved from CE
Previous versions of Lasernet FO Connector did not support the retrieval of images from CE.
Version 7.1 supports the retrieval of thumbnails for the images.
452816@LAC365FO – The Lasernet parameters page now includes the Environment Id
The LCS Environment Id parameter is now included in the Lasernet parameters page (Lasernet > Setup > Parameters).
Provide Microsoft with the Environment ID if adjustments to Flight modes are needed for an environment.
ESC Flight Mode activates or deactivates features in FinOps, which are managed exclusively by Microsoft within their hosted environment. Lasernet FO Connector shows configuration values for the environment, not just the fields from the database.
For example, Microsoft can enable or disable the following ESC Flight modes and provide access through a connection string and/or Shared Access Signature (SAS):
EnableSharingOfValidStorageConnectionString
EnableRegisterOfAzureStorageInterceptors
Test and Performance Suite
441081@LAC365FO – The Background print Bundling requires redesigning
In previous versions, it was not possible to specify ranges for child-data sources when using Top picking or Batch bundling.
The Test and Performance Suite 7.1 supports this and the use of dialog fields created for the report.
Using dialog fields and specifying ranges for the child data sources is useful for optimizing performance when executing large numbers of records.
In the following example, a report is created with a dialog field where a range can be specified for the sales orders and is added for the records that should be included:
Dialog fields are only used to execute the report and cannot be used to select the scope of records because there is no correlation between the report and the filter used.
The scope of the records is the records for which the report will be executed.
The following defines the scope:
Whereas the following defines the range(s) for the report(s):
451685@LAC365FO – An option has been added to add multiple documents to a Test checkpoint/flow
The Test and Performance Suite 7.1, included in Lasernet FO Connector 7.1, supports adding multiple entries from the Archive into a Test checkpoint.
This offers a quicker and easier way to incorporate Archive entries into Test checkpoints.
Test checkpoints enable comparisons of XML/PDF files before and after Dynamics upgrades, Lasenret FO Connector updates, customizations, and other ISV solutions.
A new dialog enables users to toggle options when adding entries from the Lasernet Archive into Checkpoints.
Id and Description
Compare PDF, Force rerun, Skip JobInfo, Destinations, and Add to flow (the latter enables users to add into existing or new flow-created Checkpoints)
The following icon has been added to indicate whether the Checkpoint archive was a valid reference record for Force rerun (Reference record, Resend menu, and others):
450524@LAC365FO – Always skip Record Ids (RecIds) when using Checkpoints
Record Id (RecId) comparisons are always omitted in Checkpoints within Test and Performance Suite 7.1.
RecIds are typically not beneficial for comparisons as they tend to be dynamic and frequently change.
In previous versions, they were included in the comparison of XML files:
And often would cause issues when comparing two files:
RecIds are always omitted in T&P 7.1, and no differences in relation to RecIds will, therefore, be shown:
450521@LAC365FO – An option has been added to add an attribute/property in the XML to identify whether Checkpoints are being used
The JobInfo section now includes details on whether the report was prepared via Test checkpoints, Test flows, or executed via the Run Test.
This can be useful to prevent the distribution of documents used for testing purposes.
This information can later serve as a condition or criterion in Lasernet to avoid the distribution of the report(s).
The LACTestCheckpointRun is added when running a Test checkpoint for a single report:
The information is incorporated when generating reports from Test checkpoints, Test flows, or through the Run Test feature.
Additionally, if executed via Test flow, the report will include details about the flow used in LACTestFlowRun.
451004@LAC365FO – The option to filter on skip testing has been introduced
In previous versions of the Test and Performance Suite, the Skip testing field could not be filtered. Version 7.1 now supports this function.
This enhancement ensures a better user experience and that nothing is overlooked, especially when dealing with numerous fields, some of which may be designated to be skipped during testing.
449545@LAC365FO – Test and Performance Suite 7.1 requires a new license code created specifically for 7.1
The Test and Performance Suite 7.1 requires a new license code.
An error message such as the following will appear if an older license code is used:
Licenses for T&P are located in Lasernet > Test and performance suite > Parameters > License terms.
453099@LAC365FO – The following error occurred during PDF comparison: “[Error] @LACTest:CheckpointPDFCompareNoResult”
In previous versions, when Compare PDF was disabled at the Checkpoint level but enabled at the Test flow level, the test result failed and provided an incorrect label ID:
The Compare PDF function was toggled to No at the Checkpoint level:
Compare PDF was toggled to Yes at the Test flow level:
451685@LAC365FO – An option has been introduced to add multiple reports to the Checkpoints/Test flows
The Test and Performance Suite 7.1 supports adding multiple entries from the Lasernet Archive to Checkpoints and Test flows.
Checkpoints and Test flows are useful for automating testing reports after upgrading FinOps, Lasernet FO Connector, ISV solutions, or other customizations.
The ability to add multiple reports from the Archive simplifies and streamlines the process of adding to various reports.