Automate JSON Email Processing with Power Automate

Processing a JSON file received by email using Power Automate can streamline data management. This process involves converting a base64 encoded email attachment into a string and then into a JSON object for extraction into an Excel table. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the steps to set up this automation.

Processing JSON Files with Automation

Dealing with JSON files received via email can be streamlined by using automation platforms. One such platform allows users to convert base64 attachment content into a readable string that can be transformed into JSON. This enables you to extract data and place it directly into an Excel table, enhancing efficiency and data management.

The first step involves setting up a trigger for incoming emails. This ensures that anytime an email with a specific attachment, like a '.json' file, is received, the flow begins. You must add an action to fetch attachments from these emails and filter them based on your requirement, which in this case could be the file extension.

Once an email with the necessary attachment is received, the next step is conversion. The attachment content, which is generally in base64 format, needs to be decoded into a string. A specific action within the automation tool—like the "Data Operations – Compose" feature—facilitates this process.

• Activate your flow by setting up an email reception trigger.
• Fetch only relevant email attachments through selective filtering.
• Decode base64 attachment content to a plain string using "Data Operations – Compose" action.

Following conversion, the platform offers another action, "Parse JSON," which allows users to input the newly converted string and turn it into account JSON format. A schema is required for this action; a sample JSON can be utilized to generate this schema, ensuring proper structure and parsing.

Extracting the needed data is the next critical step. This extraction can happen within the "Parse JSON" action or through additional steps. This stage hinges on understanding your JSON structure and determining the data you want to pull for your ends.

After extracting data, it's then time to input it into an Excel table. The action "Add a row into a table" under Excel Online (Business) is designed for this purpose. By specifying your Excel file location and table name, you can map JSON fields to Excel columns with ease.

• Convert the decoded string to JSON using the "Parse JSON" action.
• Extract necessary data based on specific conditions or additional steps.
• Map extracted data into an Excel table with the "Add a row into a table" action.

Error handling and testing forms an important step to ensure smooth automation. You should account for scenarios where JSON structure varies or the attachment format is incorrect. Testing different types of emails and attachments is crucial to resolve any possible issues in advance.

Finally, it is imperative to save and monitor the flow. After thoroughly testing and ensuring all steps are correctly set, saving and regular checking are essential to maintain performance and catch potential problems early in the course.