Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central Version 29 introduces two productivity-focused enhancements designed to help users work faster: Recently Searched in Tell Me and Recently Used Records in Lookups. These features reduce repetitive searching, accelerate data entry, and provide a more personalized user experience.
While these updates may appear small, they can significantly improve everyday workflows by reducing clicks and helping users quickly access the information they need.
What Is Recently Searched in Tell Me?
Tell Me is one of the most widely used navigation tools in Business Central. Users can access it by pressing Alt+Q and searching for pages, reports, actions, and settings.
With Version 29, Business Central now displays recently searched items directly within Tell Me.
How Does It Work?
When users open Tell Me, the system remembers previous searches and surfaces them for quick access.
Instead of repeatedly typing the same search terms, users can select from their recent search history and navigate immediately to the desired page or report.
Benefits
- Faster navigation
- Reduced repetitive typing
- Improved productivity
- Easier access to frequently used pages
What Is Show Recently Used in Lookups?
Business Central Version 29 also improves lookup dialogs by introducing Recently Used Records.
Lookup fields are used throughout Business Central when selecting customers, vendors, items, locations, contacts, and many other records.
The new feature automatically highlights records that users recently accessed or worked with.
How Do Recently Used Lookup Suggestions Work?
The lookup experience is personalized for each user.
Business Central uses usage signals already collected by the platform to determine which records are most relevant.
The feature leverages the same server-side intelligence used by Autofill and other recent-record experiences.
When a lookup dialog opens:
- Recently used records are displayed first.
- Users can select a suggested record immediately.
- Full search and browse capabilities remain available.
This ensures users maintain complete flexibility while benefiting from intelligent recommendations.
Why Is This Feature Valuable?
Faster Data Entry
Users spend less time searching for commonly used records.
Reduced Clicks
Frequently selected customers, vendors, and items are surfaced automatically.
Personalized Experience
Recommendations adapt to each user's working patterns.
Improved Efficiency
Transaction processing becomes faster because users can access relevant records immediately.
Real-World Example
Imagine a customer service representative processing multiple orders for the same group of customers throughout the day.
Instead of repeatedly searching for customer records, Business Central can present those recently used customers automatically when the lookup dialog opens.
The result is a faster and more efficient workflow.
How Do These Features Improve Business Central?
Together, these enhancements focus on a simple goal: reducing friction.
Recently Searched in Tell Me helps users navigate the application more efficiently, while Recently Used Lookups streamline data entry.
The combined effect is a more responsive and intelligent user experience that adapts to how people actually work.
FAQ
What is Tell Me in Business Central?
Tell Me is the built-in search and navigation feature in Business Central that allows users to find pages, reports, actions, and settings using Alt+Q.
What is Recently Searched in Tell Me?
It is a Version 29 enhancement that displays a user's recent searches, making it easier to return to frequently used pages and reports.
What is Show Recently Used in Lookups?
It is a new lookup enhancement that surfaces recently accessed records directly within lookup dialogs.
Can users still search all records?
Yes. Users can continue browsing and searching the full list of available records while benefiting from recent suggestions.
Are lookup suggestions personalized?
Yes. Suggestions are personalized for each user based on usage patterns and platform intelligence.
Final Thoughts
Business Central Version 29 delivers meaningful usability improvements through Recently Searched in Tell Me and Recently Used Records in Lookups.
These enhancements help users navigate faster, reduce repetitive actions, and improve productivity throughout the day.
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