NetSuite’s flexibility allows developers to create custom portlets for enhancing dashboard functionality. Portlets provide a space to display dynamic data, making it easier for users to access relevant information directly on their dashboards. Using SuiteScript, developers can design custom portlets to display information tailored to specific business needs.
A common use case is creating a Project Details portlet to display key metrics, such as project value, invoiced amounts, and cost breakdowns. This can be achieved by leveraging SuiteScript 2.0’s serverWidget and search modules. Here’s an overview of how this is implemented:
Define the Script: Use @NScriptType Portlet to specify the script type. The render function is the entry point where the portlet content is generated.
Search for Data: Use the search module to retrieve data relevant to the portlet. For instance, querying project records for details like “Project Value,” “Currency,” and “Actual Labour Cost.”
Format Data: Use HTML and CSS to organize the data in a visually appealing table. Data can be grouped into categories like “Project,” “Invoice,” and “Cost” for better readability.
Render Output: Add the formatted HTML to the portlet using addField with the INLINEHTML type.
Custom portlets enhance NetSuite dashboards by presenting complex data in an accessible format. With additional styling and logic, they can transform dashboards into powerful tools for decision-making, enabling users to monitor key metrics at a glance. By leveraging SuiteScript, businesses can customize portlets to align with unique workflows, improving efficiency and usability.