Ribbon Workbench – A tool you’ll need

Every table in Dataverse, when included in a Model-Driven App or Dynamics 365, typically features a command bar at the top, formally known as Ribbon but still has the same functionality. There are indeed three distinct Ribbon types: one for the main form, one for views, and one for subgrids. Each Ribbon type is tailored to its respective context and contains different commands. Additionally, some commands are only visible when an item is selected from the list, providing a dynamic user experience.

Is Standard Ribbon Customization Enough?

For many scenarios, relying on Microsoft’s standardized Ribbon suffices. However, there are instances where more customization is required to achieve specific tasks. This includes:

  • Hide Button in the View Ribbon

In certain cases, users may want to remove buttons from the View Ribbon to control data more precisely.

  • Running a Flow from a Custom Button

There are situations where initiating a flow from a custom button is preferable over using the default Microsoft menu.

Why Use the Ribbon Workbench?

In the past, editing the Ribbon involved cumbersome tasks such as manually modifying XML files or utilizing limited tools like the CRM2011 Ribbon Visual Editor. However, the Ribbon Workbench revolutionized this process by offering:

  • Advanced customization capabilities
  • Intuitive „Drag ’n Drop“ interface
  • Reduced time and effort required for customization

As of 2024, the Ribbon Workbench remains the go-to tool for extensive Ribbon customization, providing developers with the flexibility to implement their imagination.

Can Command Bar Editing in the Power Platform Replace Ribbon Workbench?

Microsoft has introduced functionality for editing the command bar within the Power Platform’s web experience. However, this feature has limitations, including:

  • Inability to edit default buttons
  • Constraints on performing actions like calling a flow or hiding standard buttons

While a step forward, this functionality still falls short of providing the comprehensive capabilities offered by the Ribbon Workbench.