Digitization at low cost through low-code technologies. How to get started with Microsoft Power Platform?

Today’s rapidly changing business environment requires companies to be flexible and respond quickly to new challenges. Digital transformation is key to staying competitive, but for many organizations high costs and complex technologies can be a barrier. With help comes the Microsoft Power Platform, which enables the creation of modern IT solutions with minimal financial, time and technology investment. In this article, we’ll take a look at what low-code is, what Microsoft Power Platform offers, and the benefits it can bring to your company.

What is Low-Code? 

Low-code is an approach to application development that allows rapid design and deployment of solutions with minimal use of code. A key element of low-code is an intuitive interface that enables the creation of applications or automations using drag & drop tools and pre-defined components. Users can easily configure application processes and functions by selecting from a library of predefined components and combining them without having to write code from scratch. As a result, even people without advanced programming skills can build advanced business solutions on their own, speeding up the deployment of new features and reducing software development costs. This is why more and more companies are turning to low-code to innovate their business processes.

What is Microsoft Power Platform? 

Microsoft Power Platform is a low-code toolkit that consists of several key components:

• Power BI: a tool for analyzing data and creating interactive reports and dashboards.
• Power Apps: a platform for creating mobile and web applications without writing code.
• Power Automate: a tool for automating business processes.
• Power Pages: a tool for creating secure, responsive websites.
• Microsoft Copilot Studio: a tool that integrates AI with the Power Platform to help create solutions using artificial intelligence.

Microsoft Power Platform: costs

The costs associated with using Microsoft Power Platform depend on the components chosen and the scale of their use. If a company uses Microsoft 365 and has access to tools such as Teams, Outlook and SharePoint, it most likely also has access to basic licenses of Power Apps and Power Automate. This means it can start deploying simple automations and applications right now at no additional cost.

Power Platform also offers a variety of subscription plans that start at small amounts, making them accessible even to smaller companies. Costs can include:

• User licenses: Fees for user access to Power Platform tools.
• Subscription plans: Monthly or annual plans for companies that want to use individual services on a larger scale.
• Additional services: Costs for customized solutions and technical support.

With licenses already in place, companies can begin their digital transformation quickly and without additional investment.

Examples of using Power Platform

Companies are using Power Platform to build solutions that automate repetitive tasks, simplify data management and improve internal and customer communications. Examples include service request applications, resource reservation systems or interactive reports that help make better decisions.

At our company, we have developed many Power Platform-based solutions that streamline daily operations:

• ClipIT
• DeskBooking
• Attendic

These examples show how Power Platform can support various aspects of your business, and we are ready to help you create and implement similar solutions tailored to your needs.

Power Platform deployment strategies

Companies that decide to implement the Microsoft Power Platform have three main models to choose from for implementing the process, depending on their resources, competencies and business needs:

• Self-implementation
  In this model, the company conducts the Power Platform implementation on its own, using internal IT resources. The process usually involves using available training, documentation and educational materials offered by Microsoft. This model is ideal for companies that have sufficient technical competence and want to retain full control over the implementation process. Self-implementation also allows for the development of internal IT teams, which can gain valuable experience and skills in working with Power Platform tools.
• Outsourcing the implementation
  In the case of outsourcing, a company chooses to outsource the entire Power Platform implementation process to a third-party provider, such as our company. The provider performs a comprehensive implementation, from business needs analysis, to solution design and implementation, to user training and technical support. This solution is particularly beneficial for companies that do not have internal IT resources or want to focus on their core business, entrusting the technological aspects to experts. Outsourcing the implementation minimizes risk, ensuring that the Power Platform is up and running quickly and efficiently.
• Hybrid model
  The hybrid model is a flexible approach that combines elements of self-implementation with outsourcing. A company can handle the simpler elements of implementation on its own, such as configuring basic functions or developing simple applications. On the other hand, more complex tasks that require specialized knowledge are delegated to a third-party provider. The provider can also play a consulting role, supporting the company by training IT teams or conducting audits and optimizations of already implemented solutions. The hybrid model allows companies to maximize the use of their own resources while benefiting from the knowledge and experience of external experts.

Which model to choose?

Each of these models offers unique benefits and allows you to tailor your Power Platform deployment process to your company’s specific needs and capabilities, contributing to the success of your digital transformation. If you’re not sure which option will work best for your organization, we can help you make the right choice and customize an implementation model to meet your requirements.

Where to start the Power Platform adventure?

If you’re thinking about implementing Microsoft Power Platform in your company, it’s a good idea to start with a few simple steps:

1. Identify needs: Look at your company’s processes and consider which areas could be optimized with Power Platform tools. It could be automating repetitive tasks, simplifying communication or analyzing data.
2. Train and experiment: Take advantage of the training materials available to better understand the capabilities that Power Platform offers. Then try implementing simple solutions on a small scale to see how they can work in practice.
3. Pilot deployment: Start by running small applications or automations that can gradually grow with your needs. A pilot deployment will allow you to safely test the tools before a larger deployment.

If you need support at any stage of the process, we will be happy to help you identify your needs, provide training and implement solutions that work best for your company.