Domain Model Object to Transfer Objects

[Duncan]

Is there a better way to fill a DTO from a domain model entity, or am i doing it correctly? Here is a example:

public IList<StateDTO> getStates()
{
    IList<StateDTO> stateslist = new List<StateDTO>();

    try
    {
        using (MyDBContext dbContext = new MyDBContext())
        {
            IList<States> states = dbContext.States.ToList();

            foreach (States state in states)
            {
                stateslist.Add(new StateDTO(state.StateCode, state.StateName));
            }
        }
    }
    catch (Exception ex)
    {
        //TODO: ADD ERROR LOGGING AND HANDLING
    }

    return stateslist;
}

[Serge]

Hello Duncan,

 We actually suggest using assembler classes that know how to convert to and from a DTO. This way all the logic needed for applying properties is stored in a single class. You might want to have a look at this knowledge base article that describes how you can use our T4 templates to generate a DTO layer.

Keep in mind though that we are working on a new and improved DSW wizard that will be able to generate a whole WCF Plain Service using the best practices we suggest when generating DTOs. This will be part of the Q3 release that is scheduled for mid November. 

I hope this helps. Do let us know if you have more questions.

Regards,
Serge
the Telerik team