Build Code (C# to DLL) & Invoke Method

Overview

The Build Code feature allows you to include C# source files (.cs) directly in an akaBot Studio project, compile them into a local assembly (.local\Custom_Code.dll), and invoke custom methods within your workflows using the Invoke Method activity.

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1. Compiling C# Source Files

Follow these steps to compile your C# code into a usable assembly:

1. Add C# source files to your project:

   • Create or copy .cs files into your project directory (e.g., JsonDownload.cs).
   • Define your custom classes and public methods (static or instance).

   

2. Run Build Code:

   • Click Build Code in the Studio ribbon.
   • Studio compiles all .cs files and generates .local\Custom_Code.dll, updating .local\cache.json.

3. Restart Studio:

   • A confirmation prompt lists the compiled files and prompts you to restart.
   • Click Restart Studio to reload the project with the new assembly.

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2. Invoking Compiled Methods

After restarting Studio, use the Invoke Method activity (System.Activities.Statements.InvokeMethod) to call your compiled C# methods.

Configure the following properties:

Property	Description
TargetType	For static methods: browse and select the compiled C# class (e.g., MyCompany.Helpers.DataProcessor).
TargetObject	For instance methods: provide the instantiated object variable.
MethodName	The exact name of the method to invoke (e.g., ProcessInvoice, ComputeHash).
Parameters	Input and output arguments matching the C# method signature.
Result	A workflow variable to capture the method's return value.