Tables in Dynamics 365 FO and Their Equivalents in SQL Database

Components of Tables in D365 FO

In a regular SQL database, the components of a table in Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations (D365 FO) have similar counterparts, though some are more advanced due to the application framework. Here's a comparison:

1. Fields → Columns

• In SQL, a field in D365 FO is equivalent to a column in a relational database table.

• Fields store actual data and have data types (integer, string, date, etc.).

• Extended Data Types (EDTs) and Base Enumerations in D365 FO add abstraction, similar to SQL's domain constraints or ENUM types.

2. Field Groups → No direct SQL equivalent

• Closest equivalent: Views or Aliases

• SQL does not have field groups at the schema level, but views can be used to group columns logically for querying.

• In applications, field groupings can be managed through schemas or data abstractions.

3. Indexes → Indexes

• Works the same way in SQL databases.

• Used to improve query performance and enforce uniqueness (Primary Key, Unique Index, etc.).

4. Relations → Foreign Keys (FK)

• Relations in D365 FO are similar to Foreign Key Constraints in SQL.

• They define dependencies between tables, ensuring data consistency.

5. Delete Actions → ON DELETE CASCADE / SET NULL / RESTRICT

• In SQL, DELETE actions are implemented using ON DELETE rules in Foreign Keys.

• Examples:

  • ON DELETE CASCADE → Deletes related records when a parent record is deleted.

  • ON DELETE SET NULL → Sets related records' foreign key to NULL instead of deleting them.

6. State Machines → No direct SQL equivalent

• Closest equivalent: State transition tables or Triggers

• State Machines in D365 FO handle workflows and transitions (e.g., Order → Shipped → Delivered).

• In SQL, state transitions can be implemented via status columns, lookup tables, or triggers that enforce allowed changes.

7. Mappings → Views, Joins, or ETL Processes

• Mappings in D365 FO allow fields from different tables to be accessed using a common name.

• In SQL, this is typically done using Views, Joins, or ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes.

8. Methods → Stored Procedures / Functions / Triggers

• D365 FO allows methods to be attached to tables for business logic execution.

• In SQL, similar functionality is achieved using Stored Procedures, Functions, or Triggers.

9. Events → Triggers

• Events in D365 FO are similar to Triggers in SQL, which execute code automatically before/after insert, update, or delete operations.

Summary of SQL Equivalents:

Would you like further clarification on any of these mappings?