Create and configure a model-driven app

Introduction:

Microsoft Power Platform provides a powerful set of tools to create custom applications without writing extensive code. Among these tools is model-driven app development, which allows developers to build apps that are primarily driven by data and business processes. In this article, we will explore the process of creating and configuring a model-driven app using Microsoft Power Platform Developer.

1. Understanding Model-Driven Apps:

Model-driven apps are based on a data model that defines the structure and behavior of the application. These apps are designed to provide a guided experience to users while interacting with business data. The data model is created using Common Data Service (CDS), which forms the core database for the app.

2. Prerequisites:

Before you begin creating a model-driven app, ensure that you have the following prerequisites in place:

• A Power Apps environment
• Appropriate security roles to create and customize apps
• Understanding of the data model structure and entities

3. Creating a Model-Driven App:

To create a model-driven app, follow these steps:

1. Sign in to the Power Apps portal and navigate to the Power Apps maker portal.
2. Click on “Apps” in the left-hand menu, followed by the “New app” button.
3. Choose “Create an app” under the “Model-driven app” section.
4. Provide a suitable name and description for your app, and select a preferred form factor (web browser or mobile).
5. In the “Site map” section, specify the default and sample data that you want to include in your app.
6. Define the app URL and select the required security roles for the app.
7. Click on the “Create” button to generate the base model-driven app.

4. Customizing the Model-Driven App:

Once the app is created, you can customize it to meet your specific business needs. The customization options include:

• Adding or modifying entities: You can add new entities or customize pre-existing entities to define data structures, relationships, and business logic.
• Defining forms and views: Customize the appearance and layout of forms and views to present data in a user-friendly manner.
• Implementing business rules: Use business rules to enforce data validations, automate calculations, and define other business logic.
• Configuring navigation: Customize the app’s navigation by adding or removing sitemap areas and subareas.
• Applying security: Set up role-based access control (RBAC) to control user access and permissions within the app.

5. Extending the Model-Driven App:

To further extend the functionality of your model-driven app, you can utilize the Power Platform’s other tools, including:

• Power Automate: Integrate business processes and automate workflows using Power Automate.
• Power BI: Embed interactive dashboards and reports to provide meaningful insights from the app’s data.
• Power Virtual Agents: Create chatbots to improve user interactions and provide automated support.
• AI Builder: Utilize AI capabilities to build and integrate smart features into the app.

6. Testing and Publishing the Model-Driven App:

Before publishing the app, thoroughly test it to ensure it meets the desired functionality and user experience. Once validated, follow these steps to publish the app:

1. Open the app in the maker portal, and navigate to “App settings.”
2. Choose the “Manage” option next to “App ID.”
3. In the “Details” tab, click on the “Upgrade” button to activate the app.
4. Verify and validate any necessary changes, and click on the “Publish” button to make the app available to users.

Conclusion:

Model-driven apps in the Microsoft Power Platform offer a rich and guided experience to users while effectively managing business data and processes. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create and configure a model-driven app tailored to your organization’s specific needs. Leverage the Power Platform’s extensive customization and extension options to enhance your app’s functionality and deliver a seamless user experience.