How to use client actions in OutSystems to update the UI without a full server request?

Using Client Actions in OutSystems to Update the UI Without a Full Server Request

In OutSystems, client actions play a crucial role in creating responsive and dynamic web or mobile applications by executing logic directly on the client-side, thus enhancing performance and user experience by reducing the need for full server requests. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to utilizing client actions effectively in OutSystems for updating the user interface.

Prerequisites

• An OutSystems account with access to a reactive or mobile application project.
• Familiarity with OutSystems Service Studio and basic app development concepts.
• Understanding of JavaScript, as client actions may involve writing client-side logic.

Understanding Client Actions

• Client Actions are executed on the user's device (client-side), providing a way to perform logic without needing to communicate with the server.
• They are ideal for manipulating the UI, handling user interactions, or executing local business logic.
• Client actions can be used to improve performance by reducing latency and server load.

Creating a Client Action

• Open OutSystems Service Studio and navigate to your application.
• In the Interface tab, drag the "Client Action" element from the toolbox to your module or screen where you need client-side logic.
• Rename the client action to reflect its functionality (e.g., UpdateUIOnButtonClick).

Designing Client Action Logic

• Double-click on the newly created client action to open the logic editor.
• Add logic such as assignments, conditions, or calls to other client actions to achieve the desired functionality.
• Utilize the available client-side functions like SetWidgetProperty, Navigate, or JavaScript client actions for complex logic.

Using JavaScript in Client Actions

• If you need to use JavaScript, add a "Run JavaScript" action within your client action flow.
• Write the necessary JavaScript code to manipulate the DOM, interact with the UI components, or perform custom operations.
• For instance, you can change the visibility of an element using JavaScript:

  document.getElementById('myElementId').style.display = 'none';
  

Triggering Client Actions

• Navigate to the UI element (button, link, etc.) where you want to attach the client action.
• In the properties pane, set the OnClick (or relevant event) handler to trigger your client action.
• This connection will ensure the client action is executed when the user interacts with the UI element.

Testing Client Actions

• After setting up the client action and its triggers, deploy your application to a test environment.
• Perform testing by interacting with the UI and observing the changes without any full page reloads or server requests.
• Use browser developer tools to debug and ensure that client-side logic executes as expected.

Best Practices

• Ensure that client actions perform minimal and efficient operations to keep the UI responsive.
• Avoid complex logic or heavy computations on the client-side that may impact performance.
• Keep your code organized and well-documented for maintainability and readability.
• Utilize error handling mechanisms within client actions to gracefully manage runtime issues.

By following these steps, you can effectively use client actions in OutSystems to update the UI without relying on server requests, thereby enhancing the performance and responsiveness of your application. Client actions empower you to execute immediate and efficient changes to the user interface, improving overall user interaction and satisfaction.