Virtual Fields Vs Computed Fields

 

Virtual Field:

A virtual field in D365FO is a field that doesn't have a direct representation in the database. It's a field that you can define in a table as if it were a regular data field, but its value is computed on-the-fly based on certain calculations or business logic whenever it is queried. Virtual fields are often used to display derived or computed information without storing it in the database.

Advantages of Virtual Fields:

• No need to store redundant data in the database.
• Useful for displaying calculated values without performing calculations every time.

Computed Field:

A computed field in D365FO is similar to a virtual field in that its value is calculated based on certain rules or business logic. However, computed fields are typically defined in the Application Object Tree (AOT) and are often used within forms or reports to display dynamic information based on specific calculations.

Advantages of Computed Fields:

• Provides dynamic and real-time calculations.
• Can be used for various display purposes within forms and reports.

In summary, both virtual fields and computed fields are used to display calculated or derived information in Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations. Virtual fields are defined in tables and calculated on-the-fly during queries, while computed fields are often used within forms and reports to display dynamic calculations based on business logic. The choice between them depends on where and how you want to display the calculated information.