Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Bridge SharePoint - User Profiles and User Profile Properties (part 1 of 2)
There is a constant need in SharePoint feature development to bridge SharePoint 2007 with other web applications. In order to create such a bridge, a variety of user information must be stored in the SharePoint database.
Warning: Do not tamper with the SharePoint database! No matter how tempting it is!
Although this might sound as simple as a small SQL application, tampering with SharePoint’s database could lead to disastrous results and even complete and irreversible server crashes, since many of SharePoint’s recovery features rely on the database being intact. “Feeding” information to SharePoint through its database is unadvisable and sometimes very hard to do, mainly due to the complex structure of the database.
Fortunately there is a built-in solution to this problem that is both simple and efficient: User Profiles and User Profile Properties.
In this post we will see how SharePoint’s user profiles and profile properties can help us do our job fast and easy without worrying about crashing the server or breaking more features than we create.
Let’s start with the storing information problem.
Many developers have already considered using Profile Properties as way to store the required data, but have given up on using them due to their limitations (limited validation, control, variety). Controlling the user’s input and making sure that the values are correct is essential in any bridge, and often auto-generated values based on that data are necessary. SharePoint can only do so much, and this is usually the main reason why developers avoid using the custom profile properties.
Solution: Manage information using the Microsoft.Office.Server.UserProfiles namespaces.
SharePoint Server 2007 stores user profiles in SQL Server, but the information can be imported from other data sources, such as:
· Active Directory
· Lightweight Directory Access Protocol directories (which is not Active Directory)
· Databases
· Enterprise applications (such as SAP or PeopleSoft) by defining a Business Data Catalog connection
· Web applications
· Custom SharePoint web services
· Standard .NET applications, etc.
The main classes are found in the Microsoft.Office.Server.UserProfiles namespaces. The assembly is Microsoft.Office.Server.dll found in C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\web server extensions\12\ISAPI.
The main objects to handle information within the User Profile store are:
UserProfile
Allows you to access profile properties, the My Site, personalization links, and so on.
UserProfileManager
Gives access to a collection of UserProfile objects and allows you to create, edit, and retrieve user profile objects and properties from the user profile store.
UserProfileConfigManager
Manages the user profile configuration.
Note: In order to manage data in a custom user profile property, the property must be first created. You can use the following steps to create a profile property:
1. Start > Administrative Tools > SharePoint 3.0 Central Administrator
2. In the left panel, under Shared Services Administration, click SharedServices1
3. Click User Profiles and Properties
4. Under User Profile Properties, click Add Profile Property
5. Fill in the required data and click OK
Now that we know that SharePoint accepts data from external sources and that it stores individual user values in user profile properties, it’s time to put the two together and find out how to store user data in profile properties from external data sources. This is the topic for part two of this post: Getting/Storing user data from external sources.
Warning: Do not tamper with the SharePoint database! No matter how tempting it is!
Although this might sound as simple as a small SQL application, tampering with SharePoint’s database could lead to disastrous results and even complete and irreversible server crashes, since many of SharePoint’s recovery features rely on the database being intact. “Feeding” information to SharePoint through its database is unadvisable and sometimes very hard to do, mainly due to the complex structure of the database.
Fortunately there is a built-in solution to this problem that is both simple and efficient: User Profiles and User Profile Properties.
In this post we will see how SharePoint’s user profiles and profile properties can help us do our job fast and easy without worrying about crashing the server or breaking more features than we create.
Let’s start with the storing information problem.
Many developers have already considered using Profile Properties as way to store the required data, but have given up on using them due to their limitations (limited validation, control, variety). Controlling the user’s input and making sure that the values are correct is essential in any bridge, and often auto-generated values based on that data are necessary. SharePoint can only do so much, and this is usually the main reason why developers avoid using the custom profile properties.
Solution: Manage information using the Microsoft.Office.Server.UserProfiles namespaces.
SharePoint Server 2007 stores user profiles in SQL Server, but the information can be imported from other data sources, such as:
· Active Directory
· Lightweight Directory Access Protocol directories (which is not Active Directory)
· Databases
· Enterprise applications (such as SAP or PeopleSoft) by defining a Business Data Catalog connection
· Web applications
· Custom SharePoint web services
· Standard .NET applications, etc.
The main classes are found in the Microsoft.Office.Server.UserProfiles namespaces. The assembly is Microsoft.Office.Server.dll found in C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\web server extensions\12\ISAPI.
The main objects to handle information within the User Profile store are:
UserProfile
Allows you to access profile properties, the My Site, personalization links, and so on.
UserProfileManager
Gives access to a collection of UserProfile objects and allows you to create, edit, and retrieve user profile objects and properties from the user profile store.
UserProfileConfigManager
Manages the user profile configuration.
Note: In order to manage data in a custom user profile property, the property must be first created. You can use the following steps to create a profile property:
1. Start > Administrative Tools > SharePoint 3.0 Central Administrator
2. In the left panel, under Shared Services Administration, click SharedServices1
3. Click User Profiles and Properties
4. Under User Profile Properties, click Add Profile Property
5. Fill in the required data and click OK
Now that we know that SharePoint accepts data from external sources and that it stores individual user values in user profile properties, it’s time to put the two together and find out how to store user data in profile properties from external data sources. This is the topic for part two of this post: Getting/Storing user data from external sources.
Labels: .NET, Authentication, SharePoint, testing, web development
Comments:
<< Home
I am sure that here you will find more information about writing thesis introduction. It was useful to read for me and my college friends
Hey – great blog, just looking around some blogs, seems a really nice platform you are using. First time I am visiting your site. I found so many entertaining stuff in your blog, especially its discussion. I’m currently using WordPress for a few of my blogs but looking to change one of them over to a platform similar to yours as a trial run. Anything, in particular, you would recommend about it? Writing custom essays what you think about this site?
we have two limited tools with limited usage, Get Homework Writing Services but using them together gives us a powerful, flexible and efficient method of storing and using data from any internal or external resource.
wish you all the best for upcoming comments. I am also wanted to write blog kindly guide me if my topic is metal candle supplier then what should I do first and how will I create new and unique content on this topic
I was looking for such information and I really appreciate the efforts you put into this article. Here you find more information on HOW TO MAKE A STRAIGHT GIRL FALL FOR YOU . You tell us User profile provides access to a collection of objects and allows you to create, modify, and retrieve user profile objects and properties from the user profile store. Thank you so much!
Just wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for your informational and helpful blogs. Your dedication to sharing valuable insights and knowledge is commendable. Your blogs are a joy to read, and I appreciate the effort you put into creating such informative content. Thank you!
At University Homework Help, we believe that every student deserves to excel in their academics, and we strive to make that possible for them. Our commitment to excellence and dedication to providing top-quality service has earned us a reputation as one of the best online homework assistance platforms. We understand the challenges that students face in balancing their academics with their other commitments.
Our 24/7 availability ensures that students can access our services at their convenience, irrespective of the time zone they are in. Our user-friendly interface and hassle-free payment options make it easy for students to avail themselves of our comuter science homework help services without any difficulty. We provide assistance in a wide range of subjects, including finance, accounting, management, economics, statistics, physics, biology, math, engineering, programming, and many more. Our experts can help students with their assignments, essays, research papers, dissertations, and any other academic writing requirements.
At University Homework Help, we believe that every student deserves to excel in their academics, and we strive to make that possible for them. Our commitment to excellence and dedication to providing top-quality service has earned us a reputation as one of the best online homework assistance platforms. We understand the challenges that students face in balancing their academics with their other commitments.
Our 24/7 availability ensures that students can access our services at their convenience, irrespective of the time zone they are in. Our user-friendly interface and hassle-free payment options make it easy for students to avail themselves of our comuter science homework help services without any difficulty. We provide assistance in a wide range of subjects, including finance, accounting, management, economics, statistics, physics, biology, math, engineering, programming, and many more. Our experts can help students with their assignments, essays, research papers, dissertations, and any other academic writing requirements.
Take My Classes Online" services can be a lifeline for students who need to balance work, family, or other commitments. Take My Classes Online Experts take care of the coursework, ensuring a smooth learning experience
Bridge SharePoint is a third-party tool that allows you to integrate SharePoint with other applications. It works by creating a bridge between SharePoint and the other application, which allows the two applications to communicate with each other. Adapters
Although this may appear to be a straightforward SQL application, tampering with SharePoint's database can have severe consequences, including total and irreversible server crashes, because many of SharePoint's recovery mechanisms rely on the database's integrity. "Feeding" information to SharePoint through its database is not recommended and can be difficult to execute, owing to the database's complicated structure. The teaching examples and facts are incredibly helpful. Continue your wonderful effort! I expect to see more intriguing facts from your perspective in the future. Thank you so much for your contribution!
Desperately needed someone to take my online class now, and this service came to the rescue! They swiftly stepped in, managing all aspects of my coursework efficiently. Thanks to their prompt assistance, I could meet deadlines and maintain my academic progress without a hitch. If you're in a time crunch, don't hesitate - let them take your online class now!
. Discover the power of Bridge SharePoint - User Profiles and User Profile Properties in optimizing user information. Elevate your SharePoint experience today!
Explore Bridge SharePoint for effective user profile management. Optimize user profile properties to improve collaboration and enhance organizational efficiency.
User profiles are essential for improving collaboration and customizing the user experience in SharePoint. prostitution stings Each user's name, job title, contact information, and areas of expertise are among the important elements included in these profiles. Administrators can modify and control extra attributes in User Profile Properties to better meet the demands of the company.
Post a Comment
<< Home
