Power Apps is one of the tools under Microsoft 365’s Power Platform technology. It is a low-code development tool that is growing in demand for app development given its accessibility to non-developers and starting developers alike.
In this blog, we’ll run down key points we know about Power Apps – why to use it, who can benefit, how to use it, challenges in using it, and real-life examples of apps built via Power Apps.
What is Power Apps?
Power Apps is a low-code app development tool by Microsoft. Its very essence is that it’s easy to use. Sporting prominent core features that include its drag-and-drop interface, pre-built templates, and integration with Microsoft tools (Excel, SharePoint, Teams), there is a lot of simplicity in the way it’s built – making it accessible and user-friendly.
It empowers users with minimal technical knowledge on app development to be able to test out the waters and exercise creativity in building web or mobile apps that will be useful for their personal or business projects.
Why Use Power Apps?
User-Friendly Interface
Power Apps simplifies app development for people with no coding experience. The interface is designed to be straight to the point, making it easy for users to navigate through the functionalities and available settings.
Cost-Effective
Power Apps reduces the need for extensive development teams and complex tools. For simple apps, individuals or business owners will now no longer resort to paying hefty fees to hire professional developers. If willing and able, they can take a stab at developing their apps first, and only seek out assistance, whether it’s for development or consultation, when they are stuck.
Integration with
Microsoft Ecosystem
Power Apps works seamlessly with other Microsoft products, tools, and services, making it perfect for businesses – startups and enterprises, making it perfect for businesses already using Microsoft tools. There’s no need to look further than their already existing roster of tools and technology. A prime example is how business workflows and automations built using Power Automate can be incorporated in the app being built.
Versatility
Power Apps is a powerhouse in its ability to help you create a wide range of apps, from simple forms and surveys to complex business apps with multiple integrations and functionalities. If there’s an idea that pops up, there’s likely a way to develop it using Power Apps.
Who Can Benefit from Power Apps?
Non Technical Individuals
Power Apps is not just for developers, but for business professionals, project managers, and anyone with a problem to solve. Its low-code development feature allows for accessibility among non-technical individuals.
Small Business Owners
Startups and Niche Business owners can create customized solutions without relying on costly developers to put their plans and dreams into action. With grit and persistence, business owners can take web or mobile app development matters in their own hands.
IT Professionals
Technical experts can use Power Apps for rapid development and prototyping, enabling them to create mockups and visualizations for review and approvals at a faster and more efficient pace. With the ability to integrate complex and custom logic and features, applications can be completed at a much faster pace compared to manually coded works.
Citizen Developers
Users who develop or modify applications without formal IT or development training can leverage Power Apps by creating simple applications that help ease day-to-day business tasks that can be automated and simplified; and assist in specific development tasks that do not require extensive IT involvement.
Getting Started with Power Apps
Like any other platform, there are jargons and terms that are highly specific to the tools being used. For Power Apps, we’ve listed some key words and phrases to help navigate your Power Apps journey.
App type where users can take over the visual aesthetic of an app’s interface from scratch by dragging and placing elements together
An object that links an app to a data source
An object that can be added to a canvas to provide additional functionality to the app being built
A space to store, manage, and share your data, data structures, apps, and flows
App type where users are given a more data-driven way to build an app’s interface using a structured layout
Apps that renders itself depending on the device that is being used to access the app
A series of functions that are performed in a sequence depending on the conditions set
Step-by-Step Guide to Building an App with Power Apps (Low Code)
Step 1: Sign in to Power Apps and choose the app type (canvas vs model-driven)
Step 2: Select a template or start your app from scratch
Step 3: Use the drag-and-drop interface to add elements like buttons, forms, text, and other fields
Step 4: Connect to data sources (Ex. Excel, SharePoint)
Step 5: Customize the look and feel of the app you are building
Step 6: Test, publish, and share the new app with others who will find it helpful and relevant
Real-Life Examples of Power Apps in Action
- HR Onboarding App
- Idea Bank App
- Careers Portal App
- Performance Management System
- Training App
- Delivery App
- Survey Tracker App
- IT Ticketing System
- Sales Portal
- Time Tracking App
Tips for Success with Power Apps (especially for Beginners)
Start Simple and Do Not Overcomplicate Things
While adrenaline is high from wanting to build something new from scratch, remember to start with a small project before diving into complex solutions.There’s satisfaction in completing any project – especially when it’s DIY.
Leverage Templates
If there are feelings of uncertainty and doubts about how to start or where to start, explore the templates library. It can give you inspiration, save time, and jumpstart your development journey.
Take Advantage of Available Resources
Learning how to use Power Apps doesn’t have to be a lonely journey. Microsoft shares a lot of tutorials and guides to help their users ease into the intricacies of their platforms. Additionally, there are online communities, forums, and consulting brands that are there to provide learning and support services for Power Apps and Power Platform in general.
Iterate and Improve Over Time
Celebrate wins! The first app you develop with Power Apps is just the beginning. Completing this project and looking back at how you built it, how you can improve, and what other features and functionalities you can add on to it will allow for your continuous improvement. Let other users test it out as well! Feedback is always great and helpful especially for app iteration.
Challenges to Consider in Power Apps (when using Low Code)
Learning Curve
While Power Apps is marketed as easy to use, some users may still face a slight learning curve when it comes to the advanced features. This depends on every person, but it’s worth noting that effort in self-learning is also a requirement to be able to complete a project.
Limitations in Customization
The sky’s the limit when it comes to imagining what app functionalities to include in a project. However, beginners may find that highly customized or complex set-ups may require professional development to get right.
Integration Complexity
There is a chance that some third-party applications and services might not seamlessly integrate with Power Apps.
Start Your Journey as an App Developer with Power Apps
Power Apps is a powerhouse tool, especially if you’re starting to build a career in App Development, or if you just want to dabble into it from time to time. Regardless of technical ability, it’s a tool that allows anyone to create apps that solve real-world personal or business problems that have to do with efficiency and task management.
If you’re looking for a sign to try out Power Apps – this is it! Give Power Apps a try and start building your first app.
For assistance, tips, and tricks, check out our Power Platform blueprints. Here at Automations 365, we aim to build a culture of life-long learning. Should you need professional assistance, our team of specialized Power Platform developers can assist and support you via our Power Apps Development and Consultancy Services