Mobile flows in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central can be modified manually, but the recommended approach is to copy an existing flow before you change it. The setup behind each flow is complex, so copying gives you a safe starting point.
The standard flows are locked. This lock prevents you from changing them directly, which means you can still receive updates to those flows in the future without losing your customizations.
To create your own flow, select the standard flow you want as a starting point, go to Actions and Functions, and use the copy function. You then give the new flow its own caption and modify the copy to fit your needs.
Changing a flow does require some guidance. With a little teaching or consulting, you can learn how to set up and create your own flows.
Modifying mobile flows in Business Central
It is possible to modify the mobile flows manually. The setup behind the scenes is fairly complex, though, so the usual recommendation is to copy a flow rather than edit the original directly. Copying gives you a working flow as a foundation, which makes it easier to adjust without starting from nothing.
Why the standard flows are locked
The standard flows come with a locking functionality. The lock controls which flows you can change directly. The point is to keep the standard flows intact so you can keep updating them in the future. If you customized the standard flow directly, you would risk losing those changes when updates arrive. By copying instead, you keep the original untouched and editable for future updates.
How to copy a flow
The process is straightforward. Say you want to change the flow for production consumption. Instead of editing it, you copy it:
- Select the flow you want to use as a starting point.
- Go to Actions and then Functions.
- Use the copy function.
- Give the new flow its own caption, whatever you want to call it.
You now have a new flow based on the original. The new flow is set to a default status, and you can modify it from there.
Building your own flows
Once you have a copy, you can go in and adjust it to match how you work. Because the setup is complex, this is not something you do completely on your own without preparation. With a little teaching or consulting, you can learn how to set up the flow and create your own flows for the scenarios you need.
Q&A
Can I edit the standard mobile flows directly in Business Central?
The standard flows are locked, so you cannot change them directly. The lock keeps them intact so you can keep receiving updates. To make changes, copy the flow first and edit the copy.
How do I copy a mobile flow?
Select the flow you want to start from, go to Actions and then Functions, and use the copy function. Then give the new flow its own caption and modify the copy as needed.
Why is copying a flow recommended over editing it manually?
The setup behind each flow is complex. Copying gives you a working foundation instead of building from scratch, and it keeps the original standard flow available for future updates.
Do I need help to set up my own flows?
Yes, some guidance helps. The setup is complex, but with a little teaching or consulting you can learn how to set up the flow and create your own flows.