What is the Plugin Event Execution Pipeline in MSCRM and How Does It Work?

Microsoft Dynamics CRM (MSCRM) provides a powerful framework for creating custom functionality and extending the out-of-the-box features of the platform. One of the key ways to extend the functionality of MSCRM is through the use of plugins, which are custom codes that can be executed in response to specific events or actions within the platform.

In this article, we will explore the plugin event execution pipeline in MSCRM, including what it is, how it works, and how you can use it to extend the functionality of your MSCRM instance.

What is the Plugin Event Execution Pipeline?

The plugin event execution pipeline is the sequence of steps that MSCRM follows when executing a plugin in response to an event or action within the platform. The pipeline consists of several stages, each of which performs a specific task or set of tasks as the plugin is executed.

The stages of the plugin event execution pipeline are:

1. Validation: In this stage, MSCRM validates the plugin code and ensures that it is compatible with the current version of the platform.
2. Pre-Event Processing: In this stage, MSCRM executes any pre-event processing code that is defined in the plugin. This code can be used to modify the input parameters of the event or perform any necessary setup or initialization.
3. Event Execution: In this stage, MSCRM executes the core logic of the plugin, which performs the desired functionality in response to the event.
4. Post-Event Processing: In this stage, MSCRM executes any post-event processing code that is defined in the plugin. This code can be used to modify the output parameters of the event or perform any necessary cleanup or finalization.
5. Response: In this final stage, MSCRM returns the results of the plugin execution to the calling application or user.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Plugin in MSCRM

Now that we have a general understanding of the plugin event execution pipeline, let’s walk through the steps required to create a simple plugin in MSCRM:

1. Open Visual Studio and create a new class library project.
2. Add a reference to the MSCRM SDK assemblies.
3. Create a new class that implements the IPlugin interface.
4. Define the event that the plugin will respond to.
5. Implement the Execute method of the IPlugin interface, which contains the core logic of the plugin.
6. Build the project and sign the assembly with a strong name key.
7. Register the plugin in MSCRM using the Plugin Registration Tool.

Once the plugin is registered in MSCRM, it will be executed in response to the event that it is designed to respond to. The plugin can perform any desired functionality, such as updating records, sending emails, or triggering workflows.