Lync SDK - Making a plugin for Lync

Question

First of all, thanks.

I want to know if there's some example or documentation about how to make a plugin to modify (specifically add a kind of input text, like text or emoticons) the Lync 2010. I read the Lync SDK and other documentation related, but i can only found ways of make my own application with Lync properties, not how to modify or add funcionalities to the client itself.

Thanks in advance

Answer 1

There really isn't a way to modify the Lync client itself, it doesn't have a plugin model. Basically, you've got 2 options:

1. Run the client in UI Suppression mode, in which case you'll need to implement ALL UI yourself (not great...)
2. Use the API in automation mode, and dock the conversation in a window of your own - in which case you can create any functionality you want to in your own window

From what you said about your application, it sounds like option 2 is the way to go. Roughly speaking, you'd do this:

1. Create your WPF or WinForms window with the buttons you'd need, and a WindowsFormsHost and Panel(WPF) or just a Panel (WinForms) for docking the window
2. Listen out for new conversations using ConversationManager.ConversationAdded
3. Instantiate a new instance of your window, and dock the conversation window into it

Most of this is described in the article I linked to. You could also check out the Tabbed Conversations application for an example of an app that's doing the same thing.