NetSuite scripts often start as custom solutions for specific needs but can be scaled into SuiteApps for broader distribution. Here’s a streamlined process to convert your script into a SuiteApp:
1. Understand SuiteApp Requirements
- Use SuiteCloud Development Framework (SDF) for deployment.
- Ensure account-agnostic compatibility.
- Provide comprehensive documentation.
2. Prepare the Script
- Refactor scripts for modularity and reusability.
- Avoid hardcoding account-specific values.
- Standardize naming conventions.
3. Set Up SDF
- Install the SuiteCloud CLI and authenticate.
- Create an SDF project with
project:create. - Move scripts into the appropriate
filecabinetpaths. - Update the
manifest.xmlfor metadata and dependencies.
4. Add Custom Objects
- Extract custom records/fields using SDF CLI.
- Parameterize objects and define them in
manifest.xml.
5. Handle Configuration
- Replace hardcoded values with script parameters or custom preferences.
- Create configuration UIs with Suitelets.
6. Test Thoroughly
- Conduct unit tests locally.
- Validate end-to-end in a sandbox environment.
- Implement robust error logging.
7. Deploy the SuiteApp
- Apply for a SuiteApp ID from NetSuite.
- Deploy using
project:deploy. - Distribute via the SuiteApp Marketplace or private installations.
8. Maintain the SuiteApp
- Use version control for updates.
- Regularly update the SuiteApp for new features.
- Keep documentation current.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can transform your NetSuite script into a scalable, maintainable SuiteApp ready for distribution.