How to: Add and Remove Features and Items to a Package by Using the Packaging Explorer
To configure a package to deploy SharePoint items and Features, you can use the Packaging Explorer. You can adjust the SharePoint project items and Features inside your .wsp file.
Alternatively, you can use the Packaging Designer to view and re-order the Features to change the activation order. For more information, see How to: Add and Remove Features and Items to a Package by Using the Package Designer.
Opening the Packaging Explorer
You can use the following procedure to open the Packaging Explorer, if your Visual Studio solution has at least one SharePoint project. Alternatively, the Packaging Explorer opens automatically when you view a Feature or package designer. After you close all Feature and package designers, the Packaging Explorer also closes.
To open the Packaging Explorer
On the View menu, click Other Windows.
Click Packaging Explorer.
The Packaging Explorer appears in the Toolbox.
Adding a Feature to a Package
You can add new and existing Features to a Package by using the Packaging Explorer.
To add a new SharePoint Feature
Open the Packaging Explorer.
Right-click the project name, and then click Add Feature.
To move an existing SharePoint Feature
Open the Packaging Explorer.
Drag a Feature from one project and drop it on another project.
Note
Use this method if you have more than one SharePoint project in your solution.
Validating a Feature or Package
You can identify potential problems in the SharePoint Features and packages by validating the files. Warnings and errors are displayed in the Output window and Error List window.
To validate a SharePoint Feature or package
Open the Packaging Explorer.
Right-click a Feature or package.
Click Validate.