Execute a batch file from the sharepoint designer workflow?

Question

is there a way to execute the batch(*.bat) file from a sharepoint designer workflow?

I've a specific column in the sharepoint list, a batch file should be executed whenever the value of the field is changed. I just want to design a sharepoint designer workflow to be triggered whenever the value of the site column is changed and it should execute the batch file.

Or is there batter approach to follow?

Answer 1

I would suggest that you create a custom workflow activity to do the stuff instead of a batch file. Since your only gathering info from a list and producing a file this should be quite easy.

Answer 2

I would NOT recommend allowing the executing of .bat or powershell scripts from a workflow activity.

In some respects, this is a very huge security hole - someone could very easily inject their own code into your batch/script file to execute after yours, and depending on the context of the script, could wreak havok on your farm.

Instead, I would go with Wictor's suggestion of a custom workflow activity to maximise security.

Answer 3

My recommendation is to create a powershell script that runs as a scheduled task. This powershell script will look for a change in a list value item (custom column). When the column changes then the powershell script performs your action. I hope that gets you going in the right direction, Dan