DatoCMS plugin: Auto ID

Automatically generates a UUID for single-line string fields in the DatoCMS editor, and keeps the value read-only there.

Features

• Generates a UUID v4 when a new record is opened in the editor
• Field is read-only in the editor, including on the creation screen
• Does not affect API writes
• Duplicating a record creates a fresh UUID
• Works as a field editor replacement for string fields
• No plugin permissions required

Installation

Marketplace

1. Open Project Settings → Plugins
2. Search for Auto ID and install it
3. Open your model field → Presentation
4. Set the field editor to Auto ID

Local development

npm install
npm run dev

Then add a private plugin in DatoCMS with entry point http://localhost:5173.

Usage

Use this plugin on a single-line string field that should act as an immutable identifier, for example external_id or reference_id.

When a user creates a new record in the editor:

1. The plugin assigns a UUID automatically
2. The field is shown as disabled/read-only
3. After save, the same UUID remains visible and still cannot be edited

Duplicating a record also generates a fresh UUID, even if DatoCMS pre-fills the field from the source record.

API-created or API-updated records are not modified by the plugin.

Development

npm run dev
npm test
npm run build

Publishing to the Marketplace

Before publishing, add:

• docs/cover-1200x800.png — 1200×800 marketplace cover image
• docs/preview.png — marketplace preview image (replace with a short demo video later if you prefer)

Then publish to npm:

npm publish

The plugin should appear in the DatoCMS Marketplace within about an hour.

License

MIT