What is PowerApps?

PowerApps is a Graphical User Interface (GUI) based tool that allows business and IT users to create mobile based organisation applications without the need to write any code. This means that any individual is able to create these apps without having to be a developer. These apps can be updated and modified on the fly, without having to go through app store approval each time you want to make a change.

PowerApps is intended for business analysts, so it all begins with connecting to your data. You can then choose between smartphone or tablet layouts and then start to build your app with the templates provided.

Also, you can assemble applications from common building blocks and designs in a visual layout tool, with connections to familiar cloud service API's. You can also manage any Flows you've written in PowerApps, as well as link them to more complex applications.

What can PowerApps do?

PowerApps can accomplish some very powerful tasks straight from the get go. It currently has more than 100 connectors to allow you to connect your PowerApps to several cloud based data sources. For a full list of connectors click here. However, regardless of the amount of connectors you also have the option of connecting your own API's to PowerApps through Azure. You're not limited to just predefined data sources.

Where is the benefit?

Organisations and small businesses alike become more diverse each day. How they expect their employees to create and consume data is also becoming increasingly diverse. Therefore, mobility has been and continues to be a key driver. PowerApps allows business users to develop applications for their terms to collaborate in ways that are best for them and leverage this tool across their entire organization.

Check out our PowerApps courses.