Copilot Studio in Power Apps - Making App Development Even Easier!

Microsoft Power Platform is revolutionizing the way people without a technical background can develop applications. Power Apps, a key component of this platform, enables anyone to create applications with little or no coding knowledge. In this post, Andrew Perez demonstrates how Microsoft's Copilot, powered by ChatGPT, enhances the app-building experience in Power Apps, making the development process even easier.

Introduction to Copilot in Power Apps

Andrew Perez starts by highlighting the incredible capabilities of Power Apps, which allows non-developers to take control of app development. However, he notes one major drawback: the still-present need for manual work. Enter Copilot, Microsoft's new AI-powered assistant that serves as a virtual helper throughout the app-building process, using ChatGPT to understand and execute tasks.

Setting the Scene: Building an App for a Third-Party Logistics Company

Andrew walks through a practical scenario where he creates an app for a third-party logistics (3PL) company. His app is intended to manage trucks, drivers, and contracts. He inputs a simple prompt into Copilot: "Create an app that allows me to keep track of my trucks, my drivers, and my current contracts."

Creating the Data Model

Once the app-building process begins, Copilot automatically starts by setting up a data model using Microsoft Dataverse. This model includes tables for trucks, drivers, and contracts. These tables contain sample data, which can be customized later. Andrew notes that although Copilot currently supports only Dataverse as a data source, it's a seamless and quick setup process.

Customizing the Data

Andrew demonstrates how easy it is to make adjustments to the data model using natural language commands. For example, he requests that a "rate" column be added to the contract table, and Copilot does so instantly. Similarly, he shows how columns can be removed, renamed, or new rows added. This flexibility allows users to refine their data model without extensive manual effort.

Building the App Interface

Once the data model is ready, Andrew moves on to creating the app interface. He shows how Copilot generates an app based on the data model, automatically creating a user-friendly interface with functionalities like data entry and editing. The app displays a welcome screen, and users can interact with data tables for trucks, drivers, and contracts. Andrew demonstrates how to edit truck data and add new records with just a few clicks, showcasing the simplicity of app creation with Copilot's help.

Exploring Additional Features

Beyond basic data handling, Copilot offers a range of advanced features to further enhance the app. Andrew requests the addition of a new screen, which Copilot promptly adds. He also demonstrates how Copilot can assist with understanding formulas and controls in the Power Apps Canvas Studio. Copilot provides instant explanations for any formula or control, making it easier for users to grasp complex concepts without needing to be experts.

Conclusion: Empowering Users to Build Powerful Apps

Andrew concludes by emphasizing how Copilot in Power Apps significantly reduces the complexity of app development. What would normally take hours or even days of manual work can now be done in minutes, making app development accessible to everyone, regardless of their technical background. He encourages viewers to explore more of the Power Apps platform and the Copilot assistant, including free and premium courses available through Pragmatic Works to enhance their skills further.

Happy app-building!

PS Don't forget to check out the Pragmatic Works' on-demand learning platform for more insightful content and training sessions on Power Apps and other Microsoft applications. Be sure to subscribe to the Pragmatic Works YouTube channel to stay up-to-date on the latest tips and tricks.