How to use site properties in OutSystems to adjust application behavior without redeployment?

Using Site Properties in OutSystems to Adjust Application Behavior Without Redeployment

Managing application behavior without redeployment is a vital feature in dynamic development environments. Site properties in OutSystems allow developers to do precisely that by adjusting application settings on-the-fly. This detailed guide walks through effectively utilizing site properties in OutSystems for real-time application adjustments.

Prerequisites

• An OutSystems account with access to a development environment.
• Basic understanding of the OutSystems development platform, including Service Studio.
• Familiarity with module deployment and application architecture in OutSystems.

Understanding Site Properties

• Site properties are variables stored in the application's database that can be used to manage dynamic configurations.
• They are accessible globally within an OutSystems application, thus providing a centralized way to alter application behavior.
• Modifications to site properties do not require a full deployment, making them ideal for real-time updates.

Creating Site Properties

• Open your OutSystems application in Service Studio.
• Navigate to the module where you wish to manage configurations with site properties.
• Locate the 'Data' tab and create a new 'Site Property'.
• Define the name and type of the site property. Common types include Boolean, Integer, Text, etc.
• Set a default value which will be used if the property is not specifically modified.

Utilizing Site Properties in Application Logic

• Identify parts of your application logic that require dynamic configuration (e.g., toggling features).
• Insert decisions in flow logic using the site properties to affect execution. For example, use 'If' widgets or conditions to check the value of a site property.
• Example implementation:

        // Check a site property to determine feature access
        If (GetSitePropertyFeatureToggle()) {
          // Code or logic when feature is enabled
        } else {
          // Alternative code or logic
        }
      

• This approach ensures that changes are swift without the need to repackage or redeploy applications, saving time and resources.

Modifying Site Properties at Runtime

• Use the OutSystems Service Center to modify site property values during runtime.
• Navigate to the Service Center and select your application.
• Go to the "Monitoring" section and locate the "Site Properties" subsection.
• Edit the desired property value and save your changes. This updates the value instantly across all active sessions.

Security and Best Practices

• Ensure sensitive data is not stored in plain site properties without adequate protection like encryption.
• Refrain from frequent configuration changes that might affect application stability or integrity.
• Employ robust naming conventions and documentation to clearly describe the purpose of each site property.
• Regularly review site properties to ensure they're in use and accurately reflecting desired application behavior.

By following these steps, developers can effectively use site properties within OutSystems to adjust application behavior without necessitating redeployments. This method improves agility and responsiveness to changing requirements, fostering a more adaptable application management strategy.