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SmartObjects

SmartObjects are flexible data containers that let you extend Business Central without changing the database schema. Think of them as collections of attributes that behave just like table fields – but without being locked into a fixed table design.

What makes SmartObjects special?​

  • No fixed table fields
    A SmartObject doesn’t define its own fields. Instead, it’s powered entirely by its attributes.

  • Attributes behave like fields
    Each attribute works just like a table field — you can store values, link references, and use them in configuration.

  • Two attribute types

    • Value attributes → hold text values. There’s no limit: up to 250 characters are stored directly, and anything longer is seamlessly saved in a BLOB.
    • Reference attributes → link to another record in any Business Central table.

  • Reusable and linkable
    You can create SmartObjects and connect them to other records across Business Central. This makes them ideal for extending existing data models without customizing base tables.

Working with SmartFields​

When you reference a SmartObject record through SmartFields, its attributes act just like SmartFields themselves.
That means you can:

  • Read and display attribute values,
  • Use them in rules, mappings, or automations,
  • Treat them just like they were part of the underlying record.
tip

SmartObjects are especially useful when you want to capture extra details about a record without customizing its table structure.