New Features Of Microsoft Power Apps: Latest Updates

 

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, the demand for these 5 vowels is higher than ever in business applications: Artificial Intelligence, Efficiency, Intuitiveness, Operability and User-friendliness. Microsoft Power Platform is one such platform which is well-known to deliver on all 5 of these fronts through its versatile collection of products named PowerApps, Power BI, Power Automate, Power Virtual Agents and the recently introduced Power Pages which were first introduced back in October 2019.

Power Apps was launched with the intent of empowering users to effortlessly create and use their own applications without getting tangled in complex code. These apps can seamlessly connect with various data sources and services, making things super flexible. At its core, Power Apps eliminates the necessity for intricate coding, propelling users to forge robust, tailor-made applications with remarkable ease.

With a commitment to constant innovation, Power Apps has rolled out an array of new features and updates aimed at enhancing user experiences across the board. In this article, we’ll delve into all the new features of Microsoft Power Apps, basically the latest updates that are transforming the app development landscape.

Increasing Productivity

1. Efficient and Simplified App Development

• Virtual Tables in Maker Portal : This feature enables makers to create virtual tables with data from external sources such as SharePoint, Dynamics, Azure SQL, etc. enhancing data integration without needing to migrate or clone data. This facilitates relationship building and data utilization within model-driven apps directly using the structure of the external data source.

• Responsive Page Building : The new drag-and-drop responsive layout containers enable easy design of apps for multiple form factors, eliminating the need for separate app versions.

2. Streamlined Maker Experiences

• Updated Power Apps Home Page : This new update will benefit makers with improved navigation, consistent design, performance upgrades, and an updated apps list.

• SQL Queries within Studio : Database administrators and developers will now have alternate means of working with data, allowing them to explore Dataverse tables using both standard and complex SQL queries.

• Enhancement in Power FX Formulas: Power FX now supports user-defined functions, making it possible to break complex formulas into smaller components for easier comprehension, reuse, and faster development.

• CICD Pipeline Testing : Quality Assurance Testing of Power Apps using the Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CICD) pipelines model enhances support from the Test Engine, allowing makers to seamlessly integrate test automation into their app development process using Azure DevOps tasks, Power Platform CLI, or GitHub Actions. This ensures better app quality, catching issues in early development stages, thereby streamlining the app release process.

• Express Design in Figma: This feature “Express design” enables developers and designers to come together to quickly convert artifacts such as Figma files, whiteboard sketches, and paper forms into functional apps using Figma’s design capabilities.

• Co-authoring in Modern App Designer : Imagine a scenario where a team of developers alongside business domain experts, needs to revisit\refine an app. With co-authoring, they can concurrently make changes on the same app and see the results in real-time, much like how groups of teams and individuals can edit a shared document in Microsoft OneNote or collaborate on a Google Docs file.

Improved User Experience

1. Modern UI Layout and Controls

• Updated Canvas App Controls : Power Apps now features an updated user interface, which is an opt-in feature. It offers appealing styling options such as fonts, shadows, borders, colors, and more, Fluent-based designs, and themes, aligning seamlessly with the Microsoft Fluent Design System.

• Power Virtual Agents Integration: Makers can now enhance the conversational experience of users within their apps by seamlessly integrating the new Power Virtual Agent bot using chatbot controls and the improved GPT-powered Power Virtual Agent control.

• Improved Advanced Find : The Advanced lookup option empowers users with enhanced search capabilities such as filtering data based on specific records, viewing more fields per record, searching within a specific view, and easily adding or editing conditions on lookup columns in the Edit Filters pane. Admins also have the flexibility to disable this feature.

• Embedded Power BI Reports : Power BI quick report visualization is now readily accessible on all grid pages within Power Apps as the default setting. Nevertheless, administrators retain the flexibility to deactivate this feature on a per-app basis. This enhancement streamlines report creation, fostering increased user productivity and facilitating more accessible data exploration.

2. Collaboration and Interaction

• Enhanced Sharing and Co-presence : User Experience (UX) is improved with record owners having the ability to effortlessly share records by simply adjusting the link settings, reducing the number of clicks required. Additionally, they have the option to revoke access when necessary.

• Android Device Sharing : Frontline workers can share Android devices by signing into and out of their Power Apps and other Microsoft products with the help of Microsoft’s Shared Device Mode, enhancing accessibility, security, and productivity. After completing the task, they can sign out once and will be signed out from all supported apps immediately.

3. AI-Powered Assistance

• Copilot for Makers and Users : AI-driven Copilot assists Model-driven app users with app-related queries. They can transform any business app into an intelligent one. Users can also create AI-generated app descriptions in Power App Studio or in the App Settings panel. Additionally, it streamlines deployment with AI-generated solution overviews, reducing the need for manual intervention.

Enabling Enterprise Scale

1. Robust Customizations

• Developer Environments for New Makers : The Environment routing feature enables admins to direct new makers to dedicate developer environments, promoting isolated development.

• SQL Server Stored Procedure Calls : Power Apps can directly call SQL Server stored procedures, improving performance and accessibility. People can now directly use certain functions in Microsoft Dataverse, which is a database, without any extra hassle. And they can make things even simpler by adding an ‘Environment’ object to their data sources, making it easier to connect and use their data.

• Customization Solution Context : Makers can select unmanaged solutions as the active context, can change the settings or solution list, will be empowered to set rules for solution names and publisher preferences, thus aiding in customizations and application lifecycle management (ALM), with this new active solution context feature.

2. Debugging and Monitoring

• Monitor Tool Enhancements : The Monitor tool in Power Apps Studio will be more user-friendly due to some recent changes such as moving it to a more easily accessible location, cleaning duplicate data for better clarity, and putting clear guidelines to ensure relevancy of the data sent to the Monitor. Additionally, the user interface has been revamped with new features such as sorting, highlighting, filtering, and searching for easy navigation.

• Named Formula Browsing : Enhanced UX for named formulas facilitates makers in finding a list of named formulas that is integrated into the Variables & Collections in one place. They can also change or edit a formula by simply selecting it from the list and this also allows makers to see where each formula is used in their app. All this will help them create better app design and logic implementation.

Power Apps is an ever-evolving platform that constantly introduces new updates and features to help you stay up-to-date and make the most of its capabilities. These updates, whether in public preview or generally available, are raising the bar for app development and setting new standards. With these changes, it’s now easier and more exciting than ever before to create apps that stand out, regardless of your level of experience. You can confidently take your app development skills to the next level and build impressive apps that shine. So, prepare to explore the amazing new features and unleash your full app development potential with Power Apps!

Wait, there’s even more exciting for you! If you find yourself unsure about how to harness the full potential of Power Apps and its latest features, or if you’re seeking expert guidance, look no further than Soluzione. As Microsoft Gold Partners, we bring a team of seasoned professionals with a wealth of global experience and a proven track record of delivering tailored solutions that align perfectly with your business needs. Let us take your business to new heights – we’ve got you covered every step of the way.

Why Microsoft Stack Is Best For Developing Modern Solutions?

 

Supercharge your business journey with Microsoft Stack, turning challenges into stepping stones toward transformation and success.

No matter what the age and size of your business are, you are invariably dealing with a variety of issues ranging from resource management, finding, and retaining customers, collaborating internally & externally, handling data, getting the right business application(s), and more. Although they appear like major challenges, they hold the potential to be transformative opportunities for growth, if handled well through thoughtful plans.

Many firms have found success by implementing tried-and-tested strategies, which may include utilizing a variety of tools, methods, and procedures. In today’s technology-driven landscape, you do not need to buy a bunch of different tools or software for your business problems. There exists an encompassing means that can streamline your business operations – it’s called the Microsoft Stack.

We are all aware that Microsoft has a bunch of tools catering to beginners, developers, and organizations alike. People trust Microsoft because it has a track record of reliability and seamless functionality, attributes that have engendered trust among users who rely on its solutions to deliver consistent results. With Microsoft Stack, businesses can solve most of their difficulties without investing in numerous alternative solutions.

You can learn why Microsoft Stack is best for developing modern business problems. Just keep reading !

What is Microsoft Stack?

The Microsoft Stack is made up of pre-built business and user apps as well as a number of hosting and development platforms and tools. Whether your projects are simple or complex, Microsoft Stack has a fitting component perfectly suited to support your journey. These components include Azure, MS SQL Server, Dynamics 365, SharePoint, .NET (including ASP.NET,.NET Core, WCF, WPF, and more), and others. All of these components are targeted at improving and streamlining your business processes to be more effective and efficient. Plus, these components have unique characteristics and advantages that are tailored to specific goals.

To ensure that you get the most out of it in a seamless and efficient manner, you can work with a Microsoft Implementation Partner. This approach guarantees that the best possible solution will be precisely tailored to match your unique goals and operational demands.

Soluzione IT Services is one of the leading Microsoft Gold Partners, that specializes in the implementation of Microsoft Stack. They can partner and assist your organization in strategically choosing the most suitable components from this vast Stack so that it best meets your specific business requirements. Offering a diverse range of techno\functional expertise to help in identifying and implementing the correct stack of technology. In short, the advantages that Microsoft Stack has to offer can be maximized with the assistance of an expert Microsoft solutions provider.

What makes Microsoft Stack the Best Choice for developing Modern Solutions?

Now that you understand what Microsoft Stack is, let us explore some of the key factors that make it stand apart from other technology platforms\stacks for developing a Modern Solution for your business:

1. Maintenance, Support, and Reliability

When it comes to putting technology into action, you’ve got a range of choices. But remember, it’s not just about getting the tech up and running – it’s also about the post-Go-Live maintenance and support. Think long-term: without proper maintenance and support, you’ll probably be looking for alternatives sooner rather than later.

To be specific along with components of the technology and its cool features; continuing maintenance and support are just as crucial. Take Microsoft, for instance. Enterprises that work with Microsoft are returning for good reasons – it supports older versions and provides regular updates and stability upgrades. It’s like a one-stop shop – no need to mess around with a confusing support setup. Furthermore, Microsoft is a big name, so there’s a whole tribe of users ready to help you out. And if you’re considering putting Microsoft to work for you, there are plenty of expert partners who can help you make it happen. They’ll guide you in selecting and implementing the right Microsoft Stack to match your vision. It’s all about a smoother path to success with the technology that works for you.

2. Seamless working

Imagine a world where your work flows smoothly, without any hiccups. That’s the power of Microsoft Stack. Normally, the organization juggles different tools and apps, which often leads to chaos and compatibility issues. Now this is where Microsoft Stack revolutionizes your experience. As we discussed earlier, it contains a diverse range of tools, platforms, and apps that are designed for seamless working and hassle-free collaboration.

3. Maximum Utility

Every piece of Microsoft Stack is deliberately crafted to be adaptable, cooperative, and at times, interlinked. Take Power BI, for instance – it’s not just a reporting tool, it’s a gateway to streamlined workflows, automated processes, and rapid app development to bridge gaps. The ripple effect of this approach is the benefits a user gets. Firstly, your utility skyrockets, perfectly aligning with your unique needs. Moreover, all of these extend its adaptability not only to previous versions, but also to other tools, apps, and platforms, amplifying its value even further.

4. Flexible and Scalable

Microsoft empowers its users to go beyond boundaries, as its benefit doesn’t end here. With Microsoft Stack, you have the power to shape solutions to your exact needs, opening up extra advantages along the way. So, if you ever need to change or broaden your approach while working with its components, Microsoft has got your back, ensuring your journey is both flexible and scalable. For an even smoother experience, connect with Soluzione’s team of seasoned professionals. With years of hands-on experience and expertise, they’re your ticket to fully harnessing the potential of this robust tool.

5. More Tools for More Advantages

Microsoft Stacks is made up of components including Azure, MS SQL Server, Dynamics 365, SharePoint, .NET (including ASP.NET, .NET Core, WCF, WPF, and more), and others, bringing a treasure trove of components to the table. This enables users to locate everything in one location, streamlining and accelerating their customizing and development processes. This cohesive setup is like having a complete toolkit at your fingertips – that not only bridges any gaps in the system by supporting each other but also improves the workflow through automation.

Modern Solution for Modernizing Business

In today’s rapidly evolving tech world, adaptability is the key, and that’s where Microsoft Technology truly stands out. Microsoft Stack is like an all-in-one toolbox that supercharges your business, making it easier to come up with new ideas and transforming them to reality for working together seamlessly, and really making your mark. From keeping everything running smoothly to helping you deliver your best, Microsoft Stack truly delivers what it takes to boost your business by simplifying things and keeping your progress moving forward.

A clever move is to go with Soluzione as they are the Microsoft Gold Partners that can be your ticket to a smarter future. Embrace Microsoft Stack and set yourself up for success.