SharePoint: Build Stunning Custom Card Forms Easily

Key insights

• SharePoint List Formatting lets you customize the look and feel of SharePoint lists using JSON, allowing you to create attractive, interactive custom card-based forms without writing complex code.
  
• User Experience improves with custom cards, as data is presented in a clear and modern format, making it easier for users to read and interact with important information.
  
• Customization options allow organizations to tailor list layouts and styles to fit their needs and branding, helping users find information quickly and efficiently.
  
• The process involves using JSON formatting to set up card structure, choosing which fields are shown, arranging layout, and adding rules for when certain elements appear.
  
• Power Apps Integration enables users to launch Power Apps directly from SharePoint lists, offering more ways to interact with data and automate tasks within the platform.
  
• Recent updates include better formatting tools, automation features, improved Power Apps connections, and the ability to show custom cards on hover or click for a more dynamic experience.
  

Introduction to Custom Card-Based Forms in SharePoint

Recently, Microsoft released a detailed demonstration video showcasing how to create custom card-based forms by leveraging SharePoint List Formatting. The video, presented during the Microsoft 365 & Power Platform community call on February 27, 2025, highlights the growing demand for more visually engaging and efficient ways to interact with data stored in SharePoint lists. As organizations increasingly seek user-friendly solutions, this approach offers a modern alternative to traditional list views.

Through the use of SharePoint List Formatting, users can transform basic list data into dynamic, card-style layouts. This not only enhances the visual appeal of SharePoint sites but also makes it easier for users to navigate complex information. The technology relies on JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) to define how each item is displayed, offering significant flexibility without requiring advanced development skills.

Understanding SharePoint List Formatting Technology

SharePoint List Formatting allows users to tailor the appearance of list items using JSON, a lightweight and widely-used data format. By customizing the layout, users can highlight critical details or create unique visual cues that align with organizational branding. The process involves editing the formatting settings of a SharePoint list and inserting a JSON schema to control which fields are shown, how they are styled, and even when they should be visible.

One of the key features of this technology is its accessibility. Users do not need to write complex code or use legacy tools like SharePoint Designer. Instead, they can apply custom formatting directly within the SharePoint interface. This approach lowers the barrier to entry, enabling a broader range of staff to contribute to site design and data presentation.

Advantages and Tradeoffs of Custom Card-Based Forms

The adoption of custom card-based forms brings several notable benefits. First, the enhanced user experience makes it easier for employees to find and interpret information quickly. With visually distinct cards, important data is more accessible, reducing the cognitive load and time spent searching through lists. Second, increased efficiency comes from the organized presentation, allowing users to focus on relevant data points.

However, there are tradeoffs to consider. While the formatting is highly customizable, it does require a foundational understanding of JSON. For some organizations, this may necessitate training or reliance on power users. Additionally, balancing customization with consistency can be challenging, as too much variation in card design might hinder usability across different teams or departments.

Integration with Power Apps and Latest Enhancements

A significant advantage highlighted in the Microsoft demonstration is the seamless integration with Power Apps. When combined, SharePoint List Formatting and Power Apps create powerful workflows that allow users to interact with data directly from custom cards. For example, clicking or hovering over a card can launch a Power App, enabling on-the-fly data manipulation or deeper analysis.

Recent updates have further streamlined this integration, making it easier to connect lists with custom apps and automate common tasks. These improvements reduce the dependency on manual processes and pave the way for more advanced automation within SharePoint environments. As a result, organizations can achieve greater productivity with less effort while maintaining control over data security and governance.

Challenges and Future Considerations

Despite the clear benefits, implementing custom card-based forms is not without challenges. One persistent issue is ensuring that all users have access to updated training and resources, especially as new features are rolled out. Moreover, maintaining a balance between customization and standardization requires ongoing oversight to prevent fragmented user experiences.

As SharePoint and Power Platform continue to evolve, future enhancements are likely to address many of these challenges. Organizations should stay informed about updates and best practices to maximize the value of their SharePoint investments. In summary, custom card-based forms represent a significant step forward in making data more engaging and actionable while highlighting the importance of thoughtful implementation and continuous learning.

Keywords

SharePoint custom form SharePoint list formatting card-based form create SharePoint forms customize SharePoint UI Power Automate integration Microsoft 365 forms