Receive an email when assigned a new TFS bug, task, or other work item

Question

We are using TFS 2010 and Team Explorer's work item feature for Project Management.

When a work item (like a bug or task, etc) is assigned to a user, how can that person be sent an email informing them of the new item?

Answer 1

After installing TFS Power Tools, you have to create a Custom Alert.

• In Team Explorer,Right click on Team Project Collection Root and select the Alerts Explorer.

• The Alerts Explorer opens. From the Alerts Explorer toolbar, click New. It will open the New Alert dialog.Expand the type of alert that you want to create to view the selection of pre-built templates. Click the alert template that matches your notification requirements, or click [Blank Alert].

• In the Alert Definition section, rename the alert and define your custom expression. For example, you can modify the expression to receive an e-mail notification any time project director creates or updates work items or a Work Item is assigned to you.

Answer 2

Try out the Power Tools. I believe the Power Tools allows you to manage some email functionality http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/vstudio/bb980963. When I used TFS project management the Power Tools helped get me a bunch of stuff I needed. I think it would be in the Alert Explorer.