Configure variable actions for cloud and desktop flows

The Microsoft Power Automate RPA Developer exam covers various topics related to configuring variable actions for cloud and desktop flows. In this article, we will explore the concepts and techniques necessary to effectively work with variables in Power Automate flows.

Variables are essential for storing and manipulating data during the execution of a flow. They provide a way to hold temporary values and enable us to perform calculations, make decisions, and control the flow’s behavior. Power Automate offers different types of variables to support a wide range of data requirements.

1. Initialize Variable

The Initialize variable action allows us to create a new variable or initialize an existing one. We can specify the variable’s name, data type, and initial value. The available data types include string, integer, float, boolean, and object.

For example, to create a string variable called “name” and set its initial value to “John Doe,” we can use the following expression in the “Value” field of the Initialize variable action:

"John Doe"

2. Set Variable

The Set variable action is used to update the value of an existing variable. We can select the variable and assign a new value to it. The data type of the variable remains the same.

Let’s say we have an integer variable called “counter” with an initial value of 0. We can use the Set variable action to increment its value by 1. In the “Value” field, we can enter the following expression:

@{variables('counter')+1}

3. Increment Variable

The Increment variable action is similar to the Set variable action but specifically designed for incrementing numeric variables. It automatically adds a specified value to the current value of the variable.

Suppose we have a float variable called “total” with an initial value of 5.99. We can use the Increment variable action to add 2.50 to its current value. In the “Value” field, we can enter the following expression:

2.50

These variable actions can be combined with conditions, loops, and other actions to create complex workflows. For example, we can use an If condition to check the value of a variable and perform different actions based on the result.

@if(equals(variables('name'), 'John Doe'), 'Do something', 'Do something else')

Additionally, variables can be used in expressions throughout the flow to enable dynamic calculations and decision-making.

It is worth noting that there are certain limitations when working with variables in Power Automate. Variables have a limited scope and cannot be accessed across different flows or parallel branches within a flow. It is essential to be mindful of the variable’s scope to ensure proper data handling.

In conclusion, configuring variable actions in Power Automate is vital for effective flow development. By using the Initialize variable, Set variable, and Increment variable actions, we can create and modify variables to store and manipulate data during flow execution. Leveraging variables efficiently allows us to build powerful and dynamic flows to automate various business processes.

So go ahead and explore the power of variables in Power Automate to enhance your workflow automation capabilities.