When users install Visual Assist, they have the option of choosing between two integration modes:
- Partial integration
- Full integration
The partial integration configures the experience with the classic version of the plugin in mind; while full integration mode keeps all the core features but exposes other features as well for a complete Visual Assist experience.
Discover Your Integration Mode Options
Our integration modes are designed to suit a variety of workflows. Whether you prefer a familiar Visual Studio experience or want to maximize the full potential of Visual Assist, you can choose the mode that best fits your needs.
Compare Integration Modes
Below is a detailed comparison of the benefits and features of Partial Integration Mode and Full Integration Mode, presented side by side for easy reference.
|
Partial Integration Mode |
Full Integration Mode |
| Overview |
Retain the classic setup and core tools you’re familiar with.
|
Recommends and exposes more features, including advanced options and insights.
|
| Usage
|
Keeps all default keyboard shortcuts.
|
Applies Visual Assist features and its recommended shortcuts.*
|
| Consistency
|
Easier to use if you’re used to Visual Studio’s other features.
|
Helps you explore VA-enhanced tools and deeper functionality.
|
| Feature Discovery
|
Focused on core essentials.
|
Discover and utilize less known but powerful features.
|
| Configurability
|
Minimal configuration required.
|
More options are enabled by default. Users can still opt out of features manually.
|
| Coding Assistance
|
Predicts and suggests only the most likely actions.
|
Gives similar suggestions but also gives more information on hover by default.
|
| Appearance
|
Retains most of Visual Studio’s and adds some of VA’s coloring and highlighting.
|
Enables more coloring and highlighting than usual. Also alters visuals for a cleaner, consistent look.
|
| Best For
|
Users who value the simplicity and efficiency of classic VA.
|
Users who want to maximize usage with a more comprehensive, productivity-boosting experience.
|
* Full integration mode will list recommended shortcuts for VA features but will ask the user if the shortcut replaces anything from the default IDE bindings.
Detailed Benefits
Partial Integration Mode
Partial Integration Mode is perfect for users who prefer the classic straightforward, productivity plugin setup. This mode ensures that you can:
- Maintain Familiarity: Stick to the workflow you’ve already mastered.
- Focus on Essentials: Access core tools without distractions from additional features.
- Get Started Quickly: Minimal setup required.
Full Integration Mode
Full Integration Mode is for users who want VA to maximize their productivity by providing all applicable suggestions and prompts as they are detected. It makes it easier to explore everything VA has to offer. With this mode, you can:
- Visual Assist as designed: Utilize the full suite of functionality available to you—designed to save time and increase code quality.
- Recommended bindings: Get mouse and keyboard shortcuts recommended by the developer team.
- Customize Your Experience: Personalize your shortcut and bindings to match your specific needs.
- Analyze Performance: Access detailed reports and insights to measure productivity.
Choosing your integration mode
Choosing the right integration mode is easy. Select Partial Integration Mode if you prioritize simplicity and efficiency. Opt for Full Integration Mode to unlock the full potential of Visual Assist and transform your workflow with more context-aware prompts and suggestions.
Switching modes is simple and allows you to experiment with both options to see what works best for you.