Launching Power Automate Flows from Canvas Apps

A blog post by Rishona Elijah presents a robust solution for automating tasks or processes within the app by integrating Power Automate into the App Studio. It offers the flexibility to build and manage workflows directly from canvas apps, eliminating the need to switch to another tool.

A highlighted example is a store check-in app that alerts staff through Microsoft Teams when a customer marks their arrival using a button on the app. To create this automated flow, users can select the check from the left-hand side of the screen.

Users can leverage existing templates if they cater to their use case; otherwise, they're free to construct custom workflows using the "+Create from blank" option. The flow editor unfolds within the Power Apps window itself where users can rename the initiated flow. Built on a PowerApps trigger, the flow candles any subsequent action as per user requirements.

For users aiming to recapitulate user input gathered through the app within the automated process, dynamic content from the manual Power Apps trigger can be utilized. Users can place it where they require within the flow; the suitable placement can then be linked back to the app for the right area.

After the flow is saved and closed, users can select the components (like a button or an icon) to be associated with this flow. The 'OnSelect' property for these elements, such as a button, is where a formula is drafted to initiate the flow. By typing the flow name into the formula bar, the flow can be summoned as and when required.

The post also exemplifies a formula where 'CustomerArrivalNotification.Run(TextInput2.Text)' symbolizes the initiation of the flow. The '.Run' function is typed after the flow name to get the flow running. 'CustomerArrivalNotification' needs to be replaced with its actual flow name. Also, if the flow uses more dynamic content from the app, list them in the order of usage separated by commas.

If there's no use of dynamic content in the flow, use the simplified version of the formula: 'CustomerArrivalNotification.Run()'. The user is advised to complete the formula by including a second part which clears the text in TextInput2 when the 'Submit' button is clicked. A note of caution here, it's imperative to have the flow running formula first; otherwise, the value returned will be blank.

Upon a customer's check-in by entering their name and clicking 'Submit', the flow triggers a message in a Teams channel, notifying the staff. This seamless integration of Power Automate within the Power Apps platform indeed simplifies and fast-tracks task automation!

General Background

Automation of mundane tasks is now a breeze with tools like Power Automate. Such tools not only streamline processes but they also significantly optimize productivity. Power Automate, in particular, empowers businesses to create their own automated flows within the comfort of an exiting application. This incredibly simplifies the user experience while enhancing the overall efficiency. Moreover, its seamless integration with resources like Microsoft Teams makes it a staple for modern-age businesses. Investing in such tools can surely yield long-term benefits in terms of time management and proficiency levels.

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Learn about Run Power Automate flows from your canvas apps

If you're developing a Power App, there might come a point where you'll need to automate specific tasks like sending emails, creating documents, or updating database records. One solution is to work with Power Automate inside of App Studio. This will allow you to build and manage processes without having to leave your app

Take, for example, an app that sends notifications to staff members through Microsoft Teams each time a client checks into a store with the press of a button. The automation of this process can be achieved using Power Automate.

The first step is to enter the App Studio and start the creation of your flow by clicking on the Power Automate icon. You can opt to use templates if they suit your needs or just create from scratch. This tool makes sure you don't have to leave your app to execute tasks or processes.

The automation tool allows you to customize your workflow exactly according to your requirements. Once the editor is open, you can change the flow name and then start building. After setting the trigger to Power Apps, it's just a matter of adding actions.

For instance, in the case of the store check-in app, after the Power Apps trigger, there's the Teams Post message action. This is the action that sends the staff notification.

One of the advantages is that the automation tool allows you to use dynamic content coming from the manual Power Apps trigger. This content often appears as 'Ask in Power Apps'. What this means is that user data gathered via the app can be used within the workflow efficiently.

Once you have defined the workflow and selected the component linked to it, such as a button or icon, you can save and close your flow. The component is what someone would click to set things in motion. The action related to this component is defined in the OnSelect property, where a formula is used to run the flow.

To conclude, using automation within the App Studio can significantly enhance the functionality of Power Apps. By implementing these processes, you can execute tasks more seamlessly and improve overall efficiency in your activities, ensuring seamless functionality in your apps.

More links on about Run Power Automate flows from your canvas apps

Start a flow in a canvas app - Power Apps

Dec 15, 2022 — Enable classic Power Automate experience · Open a new or an existing app in Power Apps Studio. · Select Settings at the top. · Select Upcoming ...

Create a canvas app that can trigger a Power Automate flow

Dec 15, 2022 — Create the Power Automate Flow ... On the Create your flow screen, from the list of instant templates, select Click a button in Power Apps to send ...

Run Power Automate flows from your canvas apps

Mar 14, 2023 — The answer is Power Automate within the App Studio. You can build and manage your flows right from your canvas app, without navigating away. In ...

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